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FA Giguere To Announce Retirement Next Week

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will announce his retirement from the NHL next week, Elliot Teaford of the Daily Breeze reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere's last start came in the season finale for Avs, saving 33 of 36 shots. He has had a long NHL career, first starting in the NHL in the 1996-97 season. His best seasons came with the Ducks, including a playoff MVP performance in the 2002-03 season. Giguere was a free agent in the offseason, and rather than look for a contract for another season likely serving as a backup, the 37-year-old goaltender will hang up his skates.

Avs' Giguere Stops 33 In Season Finale

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made his 19th start of the campaign in Sunday's season finale, turning aside 33 of 36 shots in a 3-2 overtime loss to the Ducks.

Analysis: Vezina candidate and Avs MVP Semyon Varlamov was originally slated to face the Ducks, but was swapped for Jean-Sebastien Giguere after a Blues loss earlier in the day handed the Avs the Central Division crown. Although the game was meaningless in the standings, Jiggy's 33-save performance against his former team was a nice exclamation point on what was likely the last regular season game of his illustrious 16-year career. The 36-year-old finishes the season with a 11-6-1 record to go along with a .913 save percentage and a 2.62 GAA. With 52 career playoff games under his belt, he'll provide some much needed experience to Varlamov and the Avs as they embark on their hunt for Lord Stanley starting Thursday.

Avs' Giguere Makes Unexpected Relief Appearance

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 22 of 24 shots in relief of Reto Berra in Friday's 5-1 loss to the Sharks.

Analysis: After Jean-Sebastien Giguere made what many believe to be his last regular-season appearance of his career Thursday, he was forced into action against the Sharks after Berra gave up two goals on five shots and was yanked by coach Patrick Roy. In a game doomed from the beginning, Giggy fared just fine in this one, which is comforting for the Avs in case they need to turn to the 2003 Conn Smythe winner if Semyon Varlamov stumbles in the postseason.

Avs' Giguere Turns In Excellent Spot Start

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 22 of 23 during Tuesday's victory in Edmonton -- his first appearance since March 18.

Analysis: After almost three weeks out of the lineup, Jean-Sebastien Giguere certainly didn't show much rust against the Oilers. It's hard to say whether he'll see another start before the playoffs, but after this fine outing, it seems like it's become more likely.

Avs' Giguere To Get Start Tuesday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere is scheduled to start next Tuesday's game against the Oilers, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: The Avs plan to rest No. 1 starter Semyon Varlamov next week prior to the start of the playoffs, meaning Jean-Sebastien Giguere and fellow backup Reto Berro will each make at least one final start down the stretch. In what is thought to be his final season in the NHL, Giggy has a 10-6-0 record in 17 starts, posting a respectable 2.71 GAA and .911 save percentage.

Avs' Giguere Will Dress As Backup In The Playoffs

News: Head coach Patrick Roy said Jean-Sebastien Giguere will dress as the backup goaltender for the Avalanche in the playoffs, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: After the Avalanche traded for Reto Berra, there was a question as to whom they would go with in the playoffs. That question was answered on Friday in the favor of the 17-year veteran. Jean-Sebastien Giguere has struggled this season with a 2.71 GAA and a .910 save percentage this season, but his experience likely gave him the edge in the backup role for the Avs' playoff run.

Avs' Giguere Suffers Hometown Loss Against Habs

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was roughed up for five goals on 35 shots by the Habs Tuesday, as the Avs suffered just their third loss in the last 10 games by a score of 6-3.

Analysis: Despite making 30 saves, Giggy was done in by sniper Thomas Vanek, who victimized him with a hat trick. Only the Montreal-native -- who is seriously contemplating retirement at year's end -- knows if this was his final hurrah in his hometown, but the loss stings regardless - especially since the Avs were 32-2-3 prior to Tuesday when scoring the game`s first goal. Third-stringer Reto Berra is slated to make his first start with Colorado on Wednesday, and Semyon Varlamov is chugging along in a Vezina-caliber season, so there's a good chance Giggy will be stapled to the bench for most if not all of the final 13 games of the season. He is now 10-6-2 with a 2.71 GAA and .910 save percentage in his 17th NHL campaign.

Avs' Giguere To Make Next Start Tuesday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his next start Tuesday against the Canadiens, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: Coach Patrick Roy will have No. 1 goalie Semyon Varlamov start the remaining two games on this week's schedule, before handing the reigns over to backups Jean-Sebastien Giguere and Reto Berra for back-to-back starts Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. With Varlamov playing some of his best hockey of the season at the moment, Giguere may not see the ice again for a long while after Tuesday. The addition of Berra as an additional backup certainly doesn't help Giguere's chances of earning extra playing time, and the acquisition already has the veteran goalie hinting that he will retire after this season.

Avs`Giguere Victorious In Rare Start Thursday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 35 saves -- his most since Oct. 10 -- en route to Thursday`s 3-2 overtime upending of the Red Wings.

Analysis: Jiggy weathered a steady barrage of shots during a tough road game at Joe Louis Arena, keeping the Avs in it just long enough for Andre Benoit to deposit the OT winner. He had been a dismal 2-5 in his last seven starts, but showed vintage flashes of the skills that brought him the Conn Smythe Trophy more than a decade ago. The Avs acquired netminder Reto Berra as insurance in case Jean-Sebastien Giguere`s back spasms flare up, so if you`re running an Avs platoon in net, make sure you have the right backup behind starter Semyon Varlamov.

Avs' Giguere Confirmed To Start Thursday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has been confirmed as the starter for Thursday's game vs. the Red Wings, Terry Frei of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: Coach Patrick Roy relayed after Thursday's morning skate that the acquisition of Reto Berra was primarily as insurance for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who has battled back spasms on a few occasions this season. With Semyon Varlamov slated to receive about 75 percent of the team's starts the rest of the way, Giguere and Berra may only be afforded a couple of nods apiece as the Avs jockey for playoff positioning.

Avs' Giguere Expected To Play Thursday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and is expected to start Thursday against the Red Wings, NHL.com's Brian Hedger reports.

Analysis: If Jean-Sebastien Giguere indeed gets the Thursday start, it could be his last for a long while, as the Avs acquired goalie Reto Berra from the Flames on Wednesday. It's believed that the Avalanche will carry three goalies for the rest of the season, and with Semyon Varlamov already assuming the bulk of the duties in the net, there will now be two goalies fighting for the scraps left over.

Avs' Giguere Allows Five In Loss

Analysis: The goaltender looked a little rusty in his first game back after the Olympic break as the Avs fell 6-4 Wednesday night. Jean-Sebastien Giguere is now 9-5-0 on the season, and should continue to play the backup role behind Semyon Varlamov moving forward.

Avs' Giguere In Net Saturday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start between the pipes in Saturday's game against the Islanders, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere broke a four-game losing streak when a decision was made in his last start against the Devils. He only allowed one goal on 28 shot attempts. He will face the Islanders for the first time in Saturday's game.

Avs' Giguere Stops 27 In Win

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has only appeared in three games since Dec. 27, and this is his first win since Dec. 6. With Semyon Varlamov in the midst of a career year, it's not likely Giguere will gain too much more playing time despite this fine outing.

Avs Roll With Giguere On Monday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be in the crease Monday against the Devils, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: Back spasms and the continued excellent play of Semyon Varlamov have prevented Jean-Sebastien Giguere from taking the ice since Jan. 21, but coach Patrick Roy will get him some work Monday in advance of the Olympic break. With four games in six nights before the break, Giguere could very well gather another start for the Avs to keep Varlamov fresh for Sochi after he was named to the Russian team.

Avs' Giguere Day-To-Day With Back Injury

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was dealing with back spasms almost two weeks ago but made an appearance Tuesday in which he must have aggravated the injury. The team has brought up Sami Aittokallio from Lake Erie so Giguere may need some extra time off.

Avs' Giguere Will Start Saturday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere is no longer dealing with back spasms, and he'll start the second game of a back-to-back, while Semyon Varlamov takes a game off for the first time since Jan. 6. Giguere got off to a great start this season, but has surrendered 19 goals on an .842 save percentage in his last five appearances. The Avs have really been riding Varlamov and will likely continue to do so.

Avs' Giguere Healthy Enough To Back Up Thursday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has recovered from his back injury and will be cleared to back up Semyon Varlamov on Thursday.

Analysis: The back spasms only held Jean-Sebastien Giguere for one game. The Avalanche haven't dispatched Sami Aittokallio to the minors just yet, but he should be sent back to AHL Lake Erie after the game if Giguere checks out fine.

Avs' Giguere Dealing With Back Spasms

Analysis: The Avalanche haven't said how much time Jean-Sebastien Giguere might miss due to the back issues, but the recall of Sami Aittokallio from AHL Lake Erie suggests he might not be available to back up Semyon Varlamov the next few games. Giguere's overall numbers (7-4-0, 2.65 GAA, .911 save percentage) aren't bad by No. 2 goalie standards, but they've taken a dramatic hit in his last five outings.

Avs' Giguere Gets Starting Nod Friday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be in the crease Friday vs. the Blackhawks, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will surprisingly get the starting nod for the Avs coming out of Christmas break, likely as a measure to keep the veteran goalie fresh with Semyon Varlamov having made the bulk of the starts of late. With a 7-2-0 record and 1.96 GAA over his 10 appearances, Giguere has produced far better than the Avalanche could have hoped for from a backup netminder.

Avs' Giguere Blasted For Seven Goals In Loss To Hawks

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was lit up for seven goals in two periods of action in Friday's loss to the Blackhawks.

Analysis: It doesn't get much uglier than than this for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who saw the impressive ratios he carried into Friday's contest effectively ruined. Don't be surprised if coach Patrick Roy is reluctant to go back to Giguere in the net anytime soon.

Avs' Giguere Falls To Stars

Analysis: Not his finest work, and that's two straight losses for Jean-Sebastien Giguere after he started the season by winning his first seven decisions. Semyon Varlamov will likely return to Colorado's net Thursday against Edmonton.

Avs' Giguere To Start Tuesday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start between the pipes Tuesday against the Stars, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will take the start on the back end of a back-to-back for the Avalanche. The veteran goalie has been very solid in relief for the Avs, going 7-1-0 with a .940 save percentage and 1.84 GAA.

Avs' Giguere Makes 26 Saves In Win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 26 of 28 shots during the Avalanche's 3-2 win against the Flames on Friday.

Analysis: This was Jean-Sebastien Giguere's second win over the Flames this season, having beaten them 3-2 back on November 8 when he stopped 30 of 32 shots. He's been outstanding as Semyon Varlamov's backup this year, posting a 7-0-0 record with a 1.67 GAA and .947 save percentage over eight starts.

Avs' Giguere To Take Next Turn Friday

Analysis: Aside from a getting pummeled for five goals in a Nov. 14 start against the Blues, Jean-Sebastien Giguere has been lights-out for the Avs, owning a 6-0-0 record and 1.62 GAA over seven starts, including two shutouts. Though Semyon Varlamov has been similarly capable this season and will gather the majority of the starts for the Avs, Giguere's continued excellence will allow him to eat into Varlamov's workload at least a little bit.

Avs' Giguere Turns Away 27 In Win

Analysis: Despite having not made a start in nearly two weeks, Jean-Sebastien Giguere didn't seem to show much rust, pushing his record to 6-0-0 on the season. While he continues to dominate when called upon, Giguere could be a useful streaming option on certain occasions for those in deeper leagues.

Colorado's Giguere To Get Nod Friday

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov will start Colorado's next game Wednesday, but Jean-Sebastien Giguere will get the nod Friday with the Avalanche playing the first of back-to-back games. Giguere has been stellar when he's had opportunities this season, posting a 5-0-0 record and 1.73 GAA over his six appearances.

Avs' Giguere Yanked, Reinserted

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was pulled in the second period of Thursday's game against St. Louis, but then was reinserted for the third. In all, he allowed five goals on 23 shots; in between, Semyon Varlamov allowed two more goals on just six shots in the 7-3 loss.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere had been spotless entering Thursday's action, allowing just five goals in five games -- all wins -- so he was due for a course correction. Still, even a clunker like this won't ruin the terrific rate stats he's put up to start the year.

Avs' Giguere To Start Thursday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will get the start in goal Thursday against the Blues, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: With Jean-Sebastien Giguere continuing to shine when called upon, coach Patrick Roy will find a way to get him in the lineup every few games. The veteran goalie is an impeccable 5-0-0 with two shutouts, a 1.00 GAA and a .970 save percentage this season.

Avs' Giguere Wins Fifth Straight

Analysis: The 36-year-old veteran continues to look fantastic in his reserve role for the Avalanche, having won his fifth straight start of the season. He's posted two shutouts and has now saved 160 of 165 shots for a 1.00 GAA and a .970 save percentage this season. Coach Patrick Roy will continue to rotate Jean-Sebastien Giguere in and with teammate Semyon Varlamov potentially facing legal repercussions, he could be in line for an increase in work down the road.

Avs' Giguere To Start Friday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will get the start in the net Friday against the Flames, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: With both Jean-Sebastien Giguere and Semyon Varlamov playing well at the moment, coach Patrick Roy will settle into a rotation for the next few games, with Varlamov receiving starts Wednesday and Sunday while Giguere gets the nod in between those dates. Even in this sort of timeshare, each goaltender remains worth starting in fantasy leagues while they remain hot. Giguere is 8-1-0 with a 1.78 GAA and .944 save percentage in nine starts.

Giguere Posts Fourth Win For Colorado

Analysis: This may be a golden opportunity for fantasy owners. Giggy is playing lights-out (0.75, .977) and will get all foreseeable starts until Semyon Varlamov's legal problems allow him to return to action.

Avs' Giguere To Start Saturday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start Saturday against the Canadiens, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his first home start Saturday, after stopping 101-of-103 shots in three road starts to begin the season. He's played lights out to this point, but is still a rather distant No. 2 behind Semyon Varlamov.

Avs' Giguere To Start Monday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start in goal Monday against the Penguins, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be back between the pipes Monday, after stopping 28-of-30 shots in Saturday's win over the Sabres. Coach Patrick Roy reportedly wants his top option, Semyon Varlamov, more rested for the team's home games later in the week.

Avs Tap Giguere For Saturday Start

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere's second start of the season won't be part of a back-to-back, an indication that the goaltender earned coach Patrick Roy's trust after blanking the Bruins last Thursday. Unless Giguere falls apart Saturday, he could continue to find himself in the net once a week or so, even with No. 1 goalie Semyon Varlamov performing spectacularly in his own right.

Avs' Giguere Shuts Out Bruins

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere's first appearance of the season couldn't have gone any better, and the Avalanche are now off to a 4-0-0 start, having allowed just three goals in four games. Semyon Varlamov, who is locked in as the Avs' starter, will almost certainly return to net for Saturday's game against the Capitals.

Giguere Posts 23 Saves In Avs' Win

Analysis: This was a major improvement from his last start, when he was pulled after surrendering four early goals. If you draft Jean-Sebastien Giguere, know that you're getting an experienced backup, not a solid No. 1 starter.

Avs' Giguere Struggles In First Preseason Action

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere, making his preseason debut, was pulled midway through the second period of Tuesday's exhibition loss to Dallas after allowing four goals on just 10 shots.

Analysis: Though Jean-Sebastien Giguere was only slated to play the first half of the game from the outset, it did not go well. Meanwhile, the young Finnish minder Sami Aittokallio stopped all 15 shots he faced after replacing Giguere and has acquitted himself well in his first two games this preseason, which could make things interesting in the battle to back up Semyon Varlamov.

Avalanche's Giguere Stops 29 In Win

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has been hit-or-miss recently, but he's managed to claw his way up to a .911 save percentage and 2.75 GAA. However, with Semyon Varlamov healthy, Giguere may not see much more playing time down the stretch.

Avs' Giguere Starting Sunday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start in goal against the Blues on Sunday, the Denver Post's Adrian Dater reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has an impressive .920 save percentage since the start of April, but a disappointing 2-2-2 record to show for it. Semyon Varlamov is healthy now, so Sunday's start could plausibly be Giguere's last of the season.

Avs' Giguere Gives Up Three Goals In Win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 24 of the 27 shots he faced and picked up a win in Saturday's thrilling 4-3 victory over the Canucks.

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov is day-to-day with a hip injury, so Jean-Sebastien Giguere earned his third start of the week. This outing wasn't nearly as impressive as Wednesday's 4-1 romp over the Ducks, but it was enough to get the job done when the Avs managed to net three third period goals. Giguere, Varlamov, and Sami Aittokallio could all be in the mix to start Monday's game against the Blue Jackets.

Avs' Giguere To Start Saturday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere relieved Sami Aittokallio in Thursday's contest after he left the game with leg cramps. Giguere stopped all 12 shots he faced before losing in a shootout in which he surrendered three goals.

Avalanche's Giguere Lets In Three In Loss

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has gotten the loss in his last four starts, and he only has two wins in 12 appearances this season. Tending the goal for a Colorado team playing out the stretch isn't likely to change that.

Giguere, Avs Fall In Overtime

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed three goals on 31 shots in Friday's overtime loss to Detroit, his second loss in as many starts.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere hasn't played too poorly in his last two starts, allowing five goals on 63 shots, but the Avs are not the most consistent of teams. Play him if you need to, but be aware that the Avs simply don't win too often.

Giguere, Avs Fall To Preds

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 35 of 37 shots Tuesday, but was stuck with a 3-1 loss at the hands of the Predators.

Analysis: It was just Jean-Sebastien Giguere's second start since March 16, but he's continually played competently when called upon as Semyon Varlamov's backup. Unfortunately, the Avs just don't win a lot.

Avalanche Go With Giguere On Tuesday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere did not allow a goal in 28 minutes of relief in Monday's game, and he will remain between the pipes Tuesday. While the Predators hover around the bottom of the league in terms of goals per game, they have averaged 3.23 goals over their last 13 games, so be aware that Giguere's matchup is not as enticing as it looks.

Avalanche's Giguere Stops Seven In Relief

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere came in for Semyon Varlamov against the Red Wings on Monday. He stopped all seven shots he faced in 28:19 of action.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere hasn't played much this season, and with Colorado seemingly out of the playoff race at this point it doesn't make a ton of sense for the Avalanche to use a veteran like Giguere all that often.

Giguere Summoned From Bench In Colorado's Loss

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was inserted into Saturday's contest against Dallas early in the second period after starter Semyon Varlamov surrendered four early goals. Giguere played well thereafter, stopping 15 of 16 shots, but the Avs never recovered, falling 5-2.

Analysis: Wasn't it just last week that Jean-Sebastien Giguere got yanked in favor of Varlamov? Actually, it was -- in the Avs' March 16 loss to Minnesota. And that, dear readers, is the problem: Neither Giguere (3.16 GAA) nor Varlamov (3.04) offers an attractive fantasy choice.

Avs' Giguere Pulled After One Period

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was pulled in favor of Semyon Varlamov after he allowed four goals on 14 shots in Saturday's 6-4 loss against the Wild.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere's first home start of the year did not go the way he expected, only lasting one period. Giguere now has losses in his last three starts, with one of those coming in overtime. Varlamov will continue to get the majority of the starts with Giguere spelling him when rest is needed.

Avs' Giguere To Start Saturday

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov will take a seat after making five consecutive starts and Jean-Sebastien Giguere will step in. It will be the fifth start of the year for Giguere, who allowed three goals in a win over Minnesota back on Feb. 14.

Avs' Giguere Stops 31, Loses

Analysis: Coming off of the death of his mother, Jean-Sebastien Giguere turned in a terrific performance, but he couldn't get enough support from his offense. Giguere, who's seen minimal action as Semyon Varlamov's backup, falls to 2-1-1 with the loss.

Avs' Giguere Expected to Start Sunday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start the back end of the double header, giving starter Semyon Varlamov a days rest. Giguere is 2-0-0 in his two starts this season, backing up for the Avalanche. He has proven to be a solid backup, but as long as he remains No. 2 on the depth chart, he has little fantasy value.

Avs' Giguere Back With Team

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was back on the bench during Monday's win over the Predators, but is expected to depart to be with his terminally ill mother within the next week. Calvin Pickard, who was sent down to the minors Monday, should be back with the Avalanche when Giguere leaves again.

Avs' Giguere (Personal) Leaves The Avs

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has left the Avs for personal reasons, but he's expected to rejoin the team Sunday.

Analysis: Calvin Pickard was an emergency recall from AHL Lake Erie, but he'll probably head back down once Jean-Sebastien Giguere returns to the team. Semyon Varlamov will start Saturday against the Oilers.

Avs' Giguere Wins In Shootout

News: After giving up three goals on 29 shots through regulation and OT, Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped both shootout attempts Thursday to pick up the win over Minnesota.

Analysis: This was just Jean-Sebastien Giguere's second start of the year -- and first since Jan. 31 -- behind Semyon Varlamov, so you can forgive him for having some rust to shake off. Unfortunately, Giguere probably won't see action again 'til next weekend, as the Avs have back-to-backs Feb. 23 and 24.

Avs Expected To Start Giguere Thursday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere's lone start of the season came on January 31, but it looks like the Avs will give Semyon Varlamov -- who has lost three straight starts -- a chance to regroup Thursday.

Offense Powers Avs' Giguere To Win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made his first start of the year Thursday and allowed three goals on 28 shots, but got six goals of support in a win over Calgary.

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov had dropped three straight while getting a grand total of one goal of support, but apparently Jean-Sebastien Giguere stimulated the Colorado offense. Unfortunately for his battle for playing time, you can't really say that Giguere did any better than Varlamov's been doing in nets.

Giguere Gets The Nod For Avalanche On Thursday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has been announced as the starting goalie for Thursday's game against the Flames, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere appeared in one game in relief last weekend, but Thursday's game will be the first he has started this season. Semyon Varlamov is entrenched as the Avalanche's starter, but if his recent struggles continue, Giguere could eat into his playing time a bit.

Avs' Giguere Preparing For Backup Role

Analysis: Last season, Jean-Sebastien Giguere saw much more work than originally expected when Varlamov faltered and he was thrust into the starter's role. However, Varlamov finished the season on a strong note, setting up Giguere's number two status coming into this year. For now, the Avs have eight back-to-back games on the schedule, so expect Giggy to get at least one of those two games each time out.

Avs' Giguere Shelled In Season Closer

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was pulled from Saturday's season finale against Nashville after allowing six goals on 29 shots.

Analysis: This is certainly not the way Giggy wanted to close out the schedule after being in net for 15 of the Avs' 41 wins this season. Semyon Varlamov will open next season as the Avs' No. 1 netminder, but Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be waiting in the wings in case he falters.

Giguere To Close Avs' Season Saturday Vs. Preds

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start the Avs' season finale Saturday against the Predators, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: The Avs just missed out on the playoffs this year, but you can't blame that on Giggy, who held the fort for several weeks earlier this season when Semyon Varlamov proved he wasn't quite ready to assume the role of everyday starter. Jean-Sebastien Giguere has a very respectable 15-10-3 record heading into Saturday's action, along with his best peripheral stats in years (.923 save percentage, 2.15 GAA). Look for him to be back for the Avs in a backup capacity next season.

Avs' Giguere Spins Shutout Loss

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was unbeatable through regulation and overtime Thursday against New Jersey, stopping all 33 pucks that came his way, but he allowed goals on both shootout attempts and was stuck with the loss.

Analysis: Playing time has been sparse of late for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, as Semyon Varlamov has been doing a lot of winning despite not necessarily playing impressively. The old backup has the starter beaten handily in save percentage and goals-against average, but it's Varlamov who typically gets the call for Colorado.

Avs' Go With Giguere In Net Saturday

Analysis: This will be just the second start in the past eight games for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who yielded the reins to Semyon Varlamov in mid-February after winding up on the shelf with a groin injury. Unfortunately for Giguere owners, Varlamov played pretty well over that stretch, posting a 4-3-1 record, 1.78 GAA and .939 save percentage. With numbers like that, we expect Giguere to be competing with Varlamov for ice time for the next few games at least.

Avs' Varlamov (Groin) Back Wednesday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) will return to the lineup as Semyon Varlamov's backup Wednesday against Los Angeles, according to The Denver Post.

Analysis: Although Jean-Sebastien Giguere has served as the Avs' starter for most of this season, he will likely be eased back into the lineup following an injury that has given him trouble in the past. It will probably take one or two bad outings from Varlamov for Giguere to be thrust back into the starter's role at this point.

Avs' Giguere Tests Injured Groin With Sunday Skate

Analysis: It sounds like a return to the lineup could be forthcoming for Jiggy. However, the question remains whether he will resume his role as the Avs' No. 1 starter or concede that title to Semyon Varlamov, who has gone 1-2-1 thus far in his absence. Monitor closely.

Avs' Giguere Departs Wednesday's Game With Groin Injury

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere left during the first period of Wednesday's 3-1 loss to Vancouver with a groin injury, according to The Denver Post.

Analysis: At first glance, this is cause for concern for fantasy owners, as Jean-Sebastien Giguere has required groin surgery previously in his career, however he didn't seem overly concerned following Wednesday's game. "I'm not too worried about it," he said. "I'm not sure what it is, but I honestly don't think it's anything serious." For now, put Giguere on your fantasy bench until the severity of the injury can be determined. He will be replaced by Semyon Varlamov between the pipes for the time being.

Giguere Starting Wednesday For Avalanche

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will tend the twine for the Avalanche Wednesday against the Canucks. according to The DenverPost.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere is just 9-10-2-2 against the Canucks in his career, but he allowed just two goals on 29 shots in his last outing against them. On a broader note, Giguere continues to revive his fledgling career with a 2.12 GAA through 27 appearances.

'Avs Giguere Earns Win Friday Night

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 39 of 42 shots on Friday night in an overtime victory over the Hurricanes.

Analysis: The game marked a four-game stretch in which Jean-Sebastien Giguere has started all four games going 2-1-1 in that time frame. Colorado bounces back Saturday night to play the Blues and it is not known at this time if Giguere will be getting jiggy with it for a fifth consecutive night.

Avs' Giguere To Make Fourth Consecutive Start Friday

Analysis: In his last three starts, Jean-Sebastien Giguere is 1-1-1 with a sparkling 1.62 GAA and .940 save percentage. As long as he continues to get goal support from his teammates, he makes for an excellent fantasy play.

Avs' Giguere Back Between Pipes Tuesday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere played well his last two starts, stopping a combined 47 of 50 shots, but came away with nothing to show for it other than a couple of losses - one in regulation and one in OT. Hopefully his teammates can pick up the scoring pace a bit and provide him with some goal support. Until that happens, he remains a risky fantasy play.

Avs' Giguere Loses Fourth Straight

Analysis: He was less than a minute from a 2-1 tie when the Orcas stormed back and knotted the game with 35 seconds remaining. He only allowed one goal in the shootout but his opponent Roberto Luongo was brilliant all game long. It's Giggy's fourth straight loss after a string of three wins.

Avs' Giguere Back Between Pipes Saturday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his second consecutive start Saturday against Vancouver, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis: It's been a tough stretch for Jean-Sebastien Giguere lately, who comes into this matchup with three straight losses under his belt. The trouble is, the Avs' offense has gone cold of late, with just seven combined goals in the last four games. Giggy still has the upper hand over Semyon Varlamov as the Avs' no. 1 starting goalie, but it's hard to make any headway in the win column when the guys in front of you aren't putting the puck in the net.

Avs' Giguere Allows One Goal, Still Loses

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 20 of 21 shots Thursday, but Niklas Backstrom was perfect on the other end and the Avs took a 1-0 loss.

Analysis: Can't lay this one on Jean-Sebastien Giguere, but he's lost three straight -- two of those to Minnesota. He's been getting a lot of starts for Colorado lately, and it's hard to see how this loss could possibly change that.

Avs' Giguere To Face Wild Thursday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will earn his fifth start in the past six games following Semyon Varlamov's poor performance Tuesday against Edmonton. Giguere has been the better goalie all season and should continue to get the majority of starts for the Avs going forward.

Avs' Giguere Will Start Tuesday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere struggled Sunday on short rest, but he should be fine. His 2.11 GAA and .922 save percentage are strong, and the Wild have lost seven of their last nine, so he's a good fantasy start.

Avalanche's Giguere Lets In Three In Loss

Analysis: Maybe starting Jean-Sebastien Giguere on back-to-back nights was a mistake, because he certainly struggled in this game. However, on the season he still has a .922 save percentage and a 2.11 GAA, so no reason to worry.

Avs' Giguere To Start Sunday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start in goal Sunday against Anaheim, the Anaheim Ducks' official Twitter page reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will face his old team Sunday. The Avalanche are 12-6-1 with Giguere in the net this season. His 2.06 GAA and .925 save percentage have locked him in as the Avs' number one goalie and he should continue to get the majority of starts going forward.

Giguere Stymies Kings As Avs Roll

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere solidified his hold on the starting goaltender's job in Colorado by backstopping the Avs to a 3-1 win at Los Angeles on Saturday night. He stopped 25 shots to claim his eighth win in his last 11 starts.

Analysis: You should now regard him as the presumptive No. 1 netminder in Denver, subject only to his playing his way out of the job by several bad outings somewhere down the line.

Avs Stick With Giguere Saturday Against Kings

Analysis: This will be Giggy's second consecutive start and fourth in the last five games. The Avs' starting goalie situation has been a revolving door all season, but right now Giggy appears to have the upper hand over Semyon Varlamov. Overall, Jean-Sebastien Giguere is 11-6-1 with a 2.12 GAA and .923 save percentage, numbers that are much better than Varlamov's (14-15-1, 3.00, .899). In our view, the starting gig is Giguere's to lose at this point.

Avs' Giguere Starting Again Wednesday

Analysis: He may be chipping away at Semyon Varlamov's workload for the second half of the season, as Varlamov has been slowed by a knee bruise and continues to go through periods of disappointing play. As it stands now, the Avs are just one point behind the Wild for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, so head coach Joe Sacco could lean on the hot hand in goal over the next three months.

Colorado's Giguere Picks Up The Win

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere, making his second straight start, turned in one of his best outings of the season. He remains the backup to Semyon Varlamov, but with Varlamov dealing with a bruised knee, he figures to see at least one start next week.

Avs' Giguere To Start Saturday Against Stars

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start his second consecutive game Saturday against Dallas, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere played well his last time out, stopping 32 of 35 shots against Nashville but failed to come away with the win. He will be backed up by Semyon Varlamov, who is still nursing a knee bruise but will dress for Saturday's game against the Preds.

Giguere Plays Well In Avs' OT Loss

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 32 of 35 shots Thursday against the Predators, but fell victim to David Legwand's goal just 34 seconds into overtime.

Analysis: He can hardly be blamed for the loss, as Jean-Sebastien Giguere played at a very high level in this one, turning away six Nashville power plays. Giggy had hit the skids a bit of late, reopening the door for Semyon Varlamov to seize the starter's role (if he can stay healthy), but he played well in this one, though he wasn't rewarded for it. Unfortunately for him, Varlamov has been playing well and it seems the Avs are dedicated to keeping the Russian as their starting goalie. That situation will likely continue to limit Giguere's fantasy value unless Varlamov suffers a serious injury.

Avs' Giguere To Play Thursday As Subsitute Starter

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will serve as an injury replacement for Semyon Varlamov (knee) for Thursday's game against Nashville, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere, originally scheduled to back up Varlamov for the second game of this week's home-and-home series with the Preds, has been promoted to starter after Varlamov took a puck off his knee during practice Wednesday. With a 9-6-0 record, 2.08 GAA and .924 save percentage, Giguere makes for a fine fantasy play on any given night. Make sure you adjust your lineups accordingly.

Avs' Giguere Plays Big In Loss

Analysis: It wasn't that his mates couldn't solve Brian Elliot -- they only fire 15 paltry shots on the Blues' netminder. He deserves another start but Semyon Varlamov has rung up four straight wins; the youngster will likely be back in there next time out ... barring injury, of course.

Avs' Giguere Starting Saturday Versus Blues

Analysis: This makes three starts in the past six games for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, making it a platoon situation with fellow netminder Semyon Varlamov. The Avs have won nine of their past 10 games (five wins for Giggy, four for Varly), so look for coach Joe Sacco to continue playing both netminders for as long as the hot streak lasts.

Colorado's Giguere Wins In Return To Anaheim

Analysis: It was his first game back at the Honda Center since the Ducks traded him nearly two years ago. He was honored with a lengthy video tribute during a TV timeout. He has been hot of late with wins in five of his last six starts. But Semyon Varlamov has started to right the ship, too. Use them in tandem if you can.

Giguere In Net Saturday For Avalanche

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be in the crease Saturday for the Avs against the Ducks, according to the Avalanche's Official Twitter Page.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere lost his four-game winning steak when he allowed four goals in his last outing, but he's still sporting a 1.95 GAA on the year and has been the better of the two goalies in Colorado.

Avs' Giguere To Face Jets Tuesday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere is 8-4-0 in 14 games this season and is currently ranked second among NHL goaltenders in GAA (1.79) and fourth in save percentage (.934). As long as he continues to get the lion's share of starts over Semyon Varlamov, he makes for a very good fantasy play between the pipes.

Avs' Giguere To Start Fourth Straight Game Friday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be back between the pipes Friday against Tampa Bay, according to the Denver Post.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere originally signed with Colorado to serve as Semyon Varlamov's backup. However, with a 1.87 GAA and and .931 save percentage under his belt, Giggy has since surpassed Varlamov as the team's starter. He also has a 7-4-0 record, including a three-game winning streak coming into Friday's tilt with the Lightning. Fantasy owners who picked up Giguere on the cheap earlier in the season are reaping the rewards now. Ride him while he's hot.

Giguere Continues Hot Play For Colorado In Win Wednesday

News: Gigure stopped 37 of 39 shots Wednesday night in a 3-2 Colorado victory over St. Louis. It was his third straight win.

Analysis: Since taking over for the struggling Semyon Varlamov, Jean-Sebastien Giguere has been nothing short of phenomenal, with a 1.62 GAA and a .949 SV%. If you're looking for some short-term help in nets, it wouldn't be a bad decision to pick up the veteran netminder.

Avs' Giguere Back Between Pipes Wednesday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his third consecutive start Wednesday against St. Louis, according to the Denver Post.

Analysis: With two straight wins under his belt, including a 31-save shootout win over the Flyers on Monday, coach Joe Sacco is understandably riding the hot hand in goal by sticking with Jean-Sebastien Giguere over Semyon Varlamov. Consider Giggy the Avs' starting goalie until further notice.

Avalanche's Giguere Stops 31 In Win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere turned aside 31 of the 33 shots he faced in a shootout victory over Philadelphia on Monday.

Analysis: The Avalanche gave up a lot to get Semyon Varlamov, but so far this season Jean-Sebastien Giguere has a .929 save percentage and a 1.85 GAA in 12 games, which means it may be hard for Colorado to keep him out of its net.

Avs' Starts Giguere Monday

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has clearly been the Avs' best keeper this season with a special 1.86 GAA in his 11 appearances. He's making a real play for a substantial role in net, having allowed just eight goals in his last six outings.

Avs Top Caps Behind Giguere's Strong Outing

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was on his game Saturday against Washington, stopping 26 shots to claim a 2-1 win.

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov has to be eyeing Jean-Sebastien Giguere's season-long stats with at least a modicum of concern. This sterling outing lowers Giguere's composite numbers to 1.86, .927, both significatly better than the ostensible No. 1 netminder's (3.14, .896). The longer Varlamov's back acts up, the more opportunity Giguere will have to steal the starter's job.

Avalanche Tap Giguere For Saturday's Start

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be between the pipes for Saturday's game against the Capitals, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has started just once since Nov. 20, but he'll get the nod Saturday with regular goaltender Semyon Varlamov dealing with a sore back. While Giguere has not played much, he has put up stellar numbers this season - a 1.95 GAA and .923 save percentage in 10 games, including eight starts. He deserves consideration if you are looking for a goaltender on the waiver wire to fill out Saturday's lineup.

Avs' Giguere Plays Well In Loss

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 32 of 35 shots Thursday against Calgary, but didn't get much offensive support and took the loss.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has had some really hard luck this year, as he's just 4-4-0 in a second-fiddle role to Semyon Varlamov, whom he's dramatically outplayed, and has lost three of his last four starts despite giving up a combined seven goals in that interim. In fact, he hasn't allowed more than three goals in a game all year. It's hard to win, though, when your team gets outshot almost two-to-one.

Avs' Giguere To Face Flames Thursday

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov got shelled for six goals on 21 shots Tuesday against Colorado, his seventh consecutive start, so it looks like Jean-Sebastien Giguere will give him a breather against the Flames. Coach Joe Sacco has been known to ride the hot hand in goal, so look for Giggy to get more starts if he plays well Thursday.

Avs' Giguere Returns To Backup Role

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will watch from the bench as Semyon Varlamov squares off against the Canucks on Wednesday, the Denver Post reports.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere performed admirably the past three games in place of Varlamov, who was benched for ineffective play, but it seems coach Joe Sacco is now ready to give Varlamov a chance to earn back the number one stopper's role. Keep a close eye on this situation, as Giguere might be called back into active duty if Varlamov's struggles resume.

Giguere Starts Again On Sunday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start for the Avalanche in their battle with the Sharks on Sunday, according to Avalanche's Official Twitter Page.

Analysis: With Seymon Varlamov struggling, Jean-Sebastien Giguere has chosen a great time to get hot. Giguere has allowed five goals in his last four appearances, and it's possible that J-S could grab the top spot if he continues to shine.

Colorado's Giguere Posts Shutout Friday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 24 shots Friday night to record his first shutout of the season as Colorado defeated Dallas, 3-0.

Analysis: It was his second start in as many nights and he certainly didn't show signs of fatigue. With Colorado's No. 1 Semyon Varlamov having a horrible November, Jean-Sebastien Giguere looks like he'll get a few more starts than usual if he continues his solid play. He's 4-2 on the season with a .934 save percentage and a 1.68 GAA.

Av's Calll On Giguere Friday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his second straight start in net for the Avalanche on Friday, according to the Denver Post.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed only one goal in his last outing, and with Semyon Varlamov really struggling in November, it's the wise thing to do for the Avalanche to turn to their veteran netminder. It would be a surprise if Giguere stole the #1 gig, but if he continues to look sharp it is a possibility.

Avs' Giguere Takes Tough Loss

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere kept up with Minnesota's Niklas Backstrom through 57 minutes of play, but took a 1-0 loss Thursday after giving up Devin Setoguchi's tiebreaking goal with 2:31 remaining.

Analysis:Jean-Sebastien Giguere's been everything you could ask for from a backup this year, easily outplaying Semyon Varlamov, whose numbers are starting to look downright Steve Mason-like. Look for Giguere to work his way into some more starts with Varlamov winless in November.

Avs Starting Giguere Thursday

Analysis: He's off to a nice start this season with a 5-3-1 mark on the strength of a 2.18 GAA and .920 save percentage. Jean-Sebastien Giguere will continue to yield the larger share of the workload to Semyon Varlamov, but it's not out of the question to think that the veteran could wrestle away more time if Varlamov hits the skids for a prolonged stretch this season.

Avs' Giguere Settling Into Backup Role

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere is adapting well to his role of backup goalie and mentor to Semyon Varlamov this season, according to the Denver Post.

Analysis: "When [Colorado] signed me, that's what they were looking for  me helping [Varlamov] along to be a good No. 1 goalie, and I think it's going really well," Jean-Sebastien Giguere said recently. Giguere is 2-1-0 in three starts this season, with a 2.00 GAA and .924 SV%. The thinking is, he could easily take over as the Avs' top goalie if Varlamov falters, but for now, Giguere says he is enjoying his new surroundings and is adapting well to being the #2 guy. "[Denver]'s a great city to live in and raise a family, and the team, being a young team, you get to be a bit of a mentor for the guys. It's a role I'm comfortable with."

Giguere Strong In Avs Win

Analysis: The veteran backup to Semyon Varlamov has been strong in his only two starts, securing victories both times while allowing just three goals. The Avs are showing the ability to win close games and high-scoring affairs, but Varlamov is their top option. Jean-Sebastien Giguere will earn more starts should his playing form resemble Monday's effort.

Avs' Giguere Coasts To Win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere got seven goals of offensive support and faced just 16 shots, stopping 15 of them, for an easy win in his first game of the year.

Analysis: It seems to be the twilight of Jean-Sebastien Giguere's career, but he's still a very good backup for Semyon Varlamov, and if Varlamov goes down with an injury (as he's been known to), Giguere could be a valuable fantasy asset in short stretches this year. For now, though, his value is limited to very deep leagues in which backup goaltenders are rostered.

Avalanche Go With Giguere

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his first start of the year for the Avalanche when they take on the Senators on Thursday night, according to the Denver Post.

Analysis: Semyon Varlamov has looked strong in the early going, but teams don't want to wait too long to get their backup keeper some work. Jean-Sebastien Giguere will be asked to serve as a mentor to the young keeper, and his value will likely be muted barring an injury.

Avs' Giguere Looks Good In Intrasquad Game

Analysis: "I felt good tonight. The first three days of training camp were pretty hard on me a bit at first, so it was good to feel some energy in a game," said Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who signed a two-year, $2.5 million contract with the Avs in July. "My body's been feeling great overall. It's just everything else, with timing and things right now. But I think I'm slowly turning the corner. Tonight was definitely the best I've felt so far." Semyon Varlamov, who started opposite Giguere and also stopped 14-of-15 shots, is slated as the team's top goalie this season, but Giggy should prove to be a very dependable backup, assuming he can stay healthy.

Avs Sign Giguere On Free Agency's First Day

News: The Avalanche signed Giguere to a two-year contract through the 2012-13 season Friday, according to the team's official site.

Analysis: Giguere's recent history has been mired by groin issues so there's some risk here for the Avs, but he's also not that far past being one of the league's elite netminders, either. He'll likely be in competition with Semyon Varlamov, where the minutes will go to the hotter player.

Leafs' Giguere Heads To Free Agency

News: Giguere (hernia) will test free agency but could still end up in Toronto.

Analysis: Leafs' general manager Brian Burke has never ruled out the option but any signing will probably come later in the summer -- no team will ante up cash without knowing how healthy Giggy is after surgery. The netminder recognizes that his days as a starter are done and he'll be a back-up/mentor no matter where he lands. As such, his fantasy value will be best in those leagues where daily transactions are allowed.

Leafs' Giguere Has Surgery

News: Giguere stated on TSN Radio 1050 that he recently had surgery for a hernia and on both groin muscles, according to James Mirtle of The Globe and Mail.

Analysis: Giggy just couldn't get past the injury this season, as he only played in 33 games (his lowest since 2000-01) and put up just 11 wins and a 2.87 GAA. The odds are pretty good he'll be wearing another sweater next season, and at this stage the best he can maybe hope for is to be part of a time-share.

Leafs' Giguere To Have Hernia Surgery

News: Giguere will undergo sports hernia surgery after the conclusion of the regular season, 640toronto.com reports.

Analysis: Giguere underwent the same procedure on the opposite side of his groin after 2007 Stanley Cup playoffs. "The sports hernia itself hasn't caused me too much pain, but it makes the rest of my muscles not work the way they should be," said Giguere. "I think that's why we had all kinds of problems this year with the groin pulls and stuff like that."

Giguere Lights Fire Under Leafs

News: The Leafs inserted Giguere for the third period of Wednesday's game against the Devils in an attempt to light a fire under the squad. He stopped all 11 shots he faced.

Analysis: The Buds caught fire with Giggy between the pipes after he made some spectacular saves to start the third. It's nice to see the team play well behind the oft-injured veteran; it might just earn him a one-year contract renewal with the Leafs.

Leafs' Giguere To Get Start Thursday

News: Giguere will start Thursday in Florida, according to AM640's Jonas Seigel.

Analysis: It was widely believed Giggy was going to get the start Wednesday but coach Ron Wilson went with James Reimer instead. Giggy hasn't seen much action this year (yes, you read that right) but Florida's pop-gun offense may not provide much of a test. Roll the dice, particularly if you need to take a chance on goalie wins.

Leafs' Giguere: Plays In Relief Again

News: Giguere replaced starter James Reimer in the third period of Monday's loss. He stopped six of seven shots he faced.

Analysis: He's just not a fantasy option at this point. The Leafs have given Reimer the reins going forward and Giggy is nothing more than an oft-injured backup who may not get more than a single start -- or worse, none -- going forward.

Giguere To Return To Leafs As Backup

News: Giguere (groin) is expected to dress as the back-up for this weekend's games, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: The Leafs will ride rookie hotshot James Reimer for the foreseeable future even with the veteran Giguere's return. "I expect (Giguere) to be dressed this weekend but I'm leaning on (Reimer) now and I couldn't predict when J.S. is going to play again," said coach Ron Wilson after Friday afternoon's practice. There's little to no fantasy value in an oft-injured backup; sorry.

Leafs' Giguere Out 7-10 Days

News: Giguere (groin) will be out for seven to 10 days, according to a report on Toronto's AM640.

Analysis: Well, that's better than initially thought but it's perhaps long enough to render him untradeable at the deadline. And while no one is really saying it out loud, retirement has be something he'll have to consider this offseason. The recurrence of these groin injuries has become far too frequent.

Leafs Tap Giguere For Saturday

Analysis: The Leafs have been playing reasonably well of late and the Habs have been reeling after that slap-down by the Bruins. He wouldn't be our first option for activation but you may want to roll the dice in deeper leagues.

Leafs To Start Giguere Against Thrashers Monday

News: Giguere will start Monday's home game against Atlanta, according to SLAM! Sports.

Analysis: With the Leafs playing back-to-back games to start the week, coach Ron Wilson said Giguere would play Monday against the Thrashers, with rookie James Reimer getting the Islanders on Tuesday. Giguere came on in relief of Reimer in the third period of Saturday's 6-2 loss to the Sabres, stopping 12 of 13 shots. It's still believed that the Leafs are actively trying to deal Giggy before the trade deadline later this month.

Leafs' Giguere: Solid In Relief

News: Giguere came into Saturday's game in the third period to replace starter James Reimer. He stopped 12 of 13 shots in relief.

Analysis: The Leafs were sloppy on the night so they didn't exactly support their netminders. Giguere has agreed to waive his no-trade clause if an opportunity is presented to the team so he could end up as a backup on a much better team. That would give him a significant fantasy boost despite a potentially lower number of starts.

Leafs' Giguere Snags SO Win

News: Giguere made 30 saves through overtime and stopped the final two shooters in the shootout to earn a 4-3 win over Florida on Tuesday night.

Analysis: Two of the three goals he allowed came on the power play. He remains a viable fantasy option as a second goalie in deep leagues but his starts will be sporadic if the Buds play James Reimer and Jonas Gustavsson as expected.

Leafs To Start Giguere Against Panthers Tuesday

News: Giguere will start Tuesday's game against the Panthers, according to Leafs insider Paul Hendrick.

Analysis: With just one win in five starts heading into the All-Star break, Giggy has not been a good source of fantasy goalie production. For the season as a whole, his record is 9-9-3, with a disappointing .896 SV% and 2.82 GAA. It's hard to recommend a guy who sports numbers like that.

Leafs, Giguere Porous Monday

News: Giguere surrendered five goals on 27 shots Monday in the loss to Carolina.

Analysis: The Canes' final tally came on an empty-netter, but five goals on 27 shots is hardly an ideal stat line, likely to have Leafs fans calling for his head, only to anoint him savior provided he plays well in his next start. He's lost three of his last four starts, but it can hardly all be put on Giggy, whose name has been popping up in trade rumors.

Leafs' Giguere: Loses To Caps

News: Giguere made 27 saves in a 4-1 loss to Washington on Saturday. He allowed three goals.

Analysis: He wasn't awful; the Leafs just got up against a red-hot goalie and couldn't find twine at the other end of the rink. He's a marginal play this season in a lot of formats; that may change if he gets dealt. Keep him on your bench and wait.

Leafs' Giguere To Face Capitals Saturday

News: Giguere will start Saturday against the Capitals, according to AM640's Jonas Siegel.

Analysis: Giguere was solid his last time out, stopping 26 of 28 shots in Thursday's win over the Ducks. However, he's still just 9-7-3 on the season, with mediocre peripheral stats (2.69 GAA, .900 SV%) which makes him a risky fantasy start in just about any format. On Saturday, don't get Giggy with it before taking a close look at any other goalie options you might have.

Giguere Guides Leafs

Analysis: Giguere played well after getting a great boost from his team's attack, upending his former employers with whom he won a Stanley Cup in 2007. Giguere's name has been popping up in trade rumors, so a few more efforts like this will make him attractive to suitors seeking to secure their crease.

Leafs' Giguere To Start Against Old Squad

News: Giguere will start Thursday against the Ducks, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: He'll be stoked to play against his former team which has been one of the hottest in the league over the last 10 games. Which wins out? He'll be hard-pressed to win but he'll put up a strong showing.

Leafs' Giguere: Open To Trade

News: Giguere has let it be known that he would be open to waiving his no-trade clause if approached, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: He wants to stay in Toronto and improve his play so he can sign a decent free-agent contract -- with Toronto or another squad -- in the summer. But a move to a contender, even in a busy back-up role, would probably help solidify a contract faster than toiling as the so-called starter on a Toronto squad.

Leafs' Giguere Solid In Return

News: Giguere (groin) made 32 saves through regulation but allowed three goals on four shots in the shootout in a 2-1 loss to Calgary on Saturday night.

Analysis: He was very solid throughout the game, particularly in the face of several defensive lapses by his teammates and general lackluster play in front of him. He looks good to go; use him as you normally would.

Giguere Back In Saddle For Leafs Saturday

News: Giguere will start Saturday's game against the Flames, according to the Toronto Star, his first start in about a month after suffering a groin injury in mid-December.

Analysis: At this point, with the Leafs all but out of the playoff picture, Giggy admits he is looking ahead to next year when he becomes an unrestricted free agent. "I always want to play well but, for sure, being a contract year, (the situation) is always a little bit more sensitive," Giguere said. "I'll be a free agent at the end of the year. I want to put my name out there; make sure that, when it comes that time, people are looking at me (as) a good option." If Giggy plays well over the next few weeks, the Leafs may be in a position come the trade deadline to deal him to a playoff-bound team. This would certainly increase his fantasy value, so keep a close eye on the situation.

Leafs' Giguere Cleared For Action

News: Giguere (groin) has passed his medical tests and will dress Thursday as the back-up behind starter James Reimer, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: Reimer is on a roll and it looks like the Leafs will give him every opportunity to strut his stuff. Giggy is an unrestricted free agent who might be appealing to other teams at the trade deadline but he'll have to get back into action to prove his groin is indeed healed.

Leafs' Giguere Ready For Backup Duty

News: Giguere will back up James Reimer on Thursday if he passes tests to return from his groin injury, TSN.ca reports.

Analysis: Giguere keeps getting closer and closer, though some owners were probably hoping he'd be starting Thursday. There's less urgency to push things with Reimer on a roll, but Jonas Gustavsson has been pretty lousy this year, so once Reimer cools down there's a good chance for Giguere to seize most of the starts, health permitting, of course. We have to wonder, however, if the Leafs might be thinking about a trade of some sort, with three capable goalies now in the mix.

Leafs' Giguere Getting Close

News: Giguere, who hasn't played since Dec. 16 due to a groin injury, is on pace to return to action Thursday in Phoenix, The Windsor Star reports.

Analysis: James Reimer is a pretty hot goalie for the Leafs right now with three wins in four January games, so we'd imagine if Giguere isn't 100 percent they would have no problem pushing back his return a few more days. We'll try to get a read on whether Giggy will start or back up Thursday when/if he's activated.

Leafs' Giguere: Return Pushed Back

Analysis: "I feel like I probably could go," said Giguere when asked if he felt he could return for one of the next two games. "But like I said, right now it's a decision to make that maybe wait another week and make it even more stronger... I don't want to be just playing another week and then you're back to the same position." You have to wonder if this is something that might just keep lingering. Keep him benched.

Leafs' Giguere Still About A Week Away

News: While Giguere (groin) wants to be back Thursday, Leafs' coach Ron Wilson believes the netminder is still about a week away from returning, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: The Buds will be cautious with Giggy in the hope that he can return to starting duty and either lift his team in the standings or provide trade bait. But the market for lower-tier twine-tenders is slim these days so he may not net the team much in return regardless of how well he's playing.

Leafs' Giguere: Out Two Weeks

News: Giguere (groin) will be out two weeks, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: "The specialist wants him to get complete rest for about a week," said Leafs' coach Ron Wilson. "Don't expect to see Giguere on the ice for a week to 10 days and then once he's rested, he'll go through what we call his on-ice progressions. You're probably looking at him missing close to two weeks." Giggy has already missed two weeks; hopefully this will get things right.

Toronto's Giguere To See Specialist Monday

News: Giguere (groin) is slated to see a specialist Monday, reports Toronto's FAN590.

Analysis: There have been early estimates of a one-to-two week absence but that was before any specialist visit. And quite honestly, that type of rest has already failed the big netminder. He could be in line for something much longer depending on the outcome of Monday's visit.

Leafs' Giguere Out 1-2 Weeks

News: Giguere (groin) will miss one to two weeks, the Globe and Mail's James Mirtle reports.

Analysis: Giguere is expected to meet with a specialist sometime in the next few days to determine the full extent of the injury, but he'll likely sit out at least a week. Jonas Gustavsson will handle the bulk of the goaltending duties.

Leafs' Giguere Concerned About Future

News: Giguere's groin injury may be much more than a tweak and he's worried about the long-term impact it could have on his career, reports the Toronto Sun.

Analysis: "When I started playing this time, there was a sharp pain," said Giguere. "It's more than a matter of resting it. We have to find out what it is. We have brought it back to 100 percent before, then I start playing and it gets tired and weak." He will see a doctor Sunday and a visit to a specialist may be needed. He's a free agent at season's end and his coming contract is likely his last. A long-term absence right now could seriously impact his ability to earn another decent contract.

Leafs' Giguere Aggravates Groin Injury

News: Giguere aggravated his groin injury during Thursday night's loss to Calgary and is listed as day-to-day, according to a team press release.

Analysis: Every time you think Giggy is out of the woods, he seems to suffer another setback. He had started four straight games leading into Thursday, but he put up a stinker in that one and now it looks like he tweaked the ailment again. It's already been determined the Leafs will use Jonas Gustavsson the next two games, TSN.ca reports.

Leafs Yank Giguere After Two Periods

News: Giguere was replaced by Jonas Gustavsson after two periods of action in Calgary on Thursday night. He allowed four goals on 24 shots.

Analysis: Giggy wasn't sharp, particularly on Rene Bourque's goal late in the second. The Buds have actually been decent of late but we still think you should use caution with the Leafs' twine tenders. It's too easy to get burned by them.

Leafs' Giguere to Face Flames Thursday

News: Giguere will start Thursday against the Flames, according to AM640's Jonas Siegel.

Analysis: This will be Giguere's fourth straight start for the Leafs, who has two consecutive games, against the Oilers and Habs, respectively. He seems to be in a zone right now, so enjoy the fantasy benefits while he's hot.

Leafs to Start Giguere Tuesday

News: Giguere will start Tuesday against Edmonton, James Mirtle of the Toronto Globe & Mail reports.

Analysis: He was shelled by the Oilers in a relief appearance earlier this season, but Giguere hasn't exactly played well enough otherwise to make him a strong option even in a good matchup against Edmonton. Tread carefully here, especially since Jonas Gustavsson seems to be the Leafs' choice to handle the larger portion of the timeshare.

Leafs' Giguere Loses to Flyers

News: Giguere surrendered four goals on 28 shots in Thursday's loss to the Flyers.

Analysis: He's been bothered by a groin issue, but got through this game alright, except for the whole allowing-four-goals part. Jonas Gustavsson has been the better goalie this year, and should keep digging into Giguere's time.

Leafs to Start Giguere Thursday

News: Giguere will start Thursday's game against the Flyers, according to Leafs insider Paul Hendrick.

Analysis: It looks like Giguere's recent groin injury is no longer bothering him. Giggy gets the nod in this matchup as fellow netminder Jonas Gustavsson played the previous two games - Wednesday against the Penguins and Monday against the Capitals. Expect the timeshare between the two Leaf goalies to continue for the forseeable future.

Leafs' Giguere Healthy Enough for Backup Role

News: According to Maple Leafs assistant Rob Zettler, Giguere (groin) is expected to back up Jonas Gustavsson on Wednesday, TSN.ca reports.

Analysis: We would assume the latest groin area aggravation isn't that serious then. However, given how long it's taken Giguere to get past it, we also wouldn't take it off the radar until he's starting multiple games without issue.

Groin Issues Continue for Leafs' Giguere

News: Giguere did not take the morning skate Monday after tweaking an existing groin injury, TSN.ca reports.

Analysis: The Leafs are hoping it's not as serious as the last one that caused Giguere to miss a couple of weeks. However, it looks like he's out for Monday's game in Washington, as James Reimer has been brought up from the AHL to presumably back up Jonas Gustavsson.

Leafs' Giggy Beats Bruins

News: Giguere made 25 saves in a 3-2 shootout win over Boston on Saturday night.

Analysis: He was solid when he needed to be. And given Jonas Gustavsson's shaky last outing, Giggy could be "the man" in Toronto again. The Leafs did play inspired hockey Saturday; maybe he'll be a solid roll again some day soon.

Leafs' Giguere to Face Bruins Saturday

News: Giguere will start Saturday against the Bruins, according to AM640's Jonas Siegel.

Analysis: The Maple Leafs are a mess right now, with four consecutive losses and a 3-6-1 record in their last 10 games. Using any Leafs goalie for fantasy purposes is just too much of a risk right now - steer clear.

Leafs' Giguere Cleared to Play

News: Giguere (groin) has been cleared to return to the lineup, according to the Toronto Star.

Analysis: Giguere has missed the past two weeks with a groin injury. He was 5-5-2 with a 2.78 GAA and .895 SV% before the injury and it remains to be seen how he will be worked back into the lineup due to the strong play of Jonas Gustavsson in his absence.

Giguere (Groin) Back at Leafs' Practice

News: Giguere (groin) participated in full practice Monday for the first time since straining a groin muscle on Nov. 16, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: He's unlikely to start Tuesday as he hasn't had a lot of practice time. But he should get a chance later in the week. Avoid him this week, particularly while we wait to find out how he and Jonas Gustavsson start to split games. The Monster has been strong so there's a chance a timeshare could be in effect soon.

Leaf's Giguere Hoping to Practice Tuesday

News: Giguere, who's been out since last Tuesday with a groin injury, is hoping to be back on the ice practicing Tuesday, the Toronto Star reports.

Analysis: Giguere thinks that if all goes well, he'd be able to play in a back-to-back situation this weekend, either in Buffalo or in Ottawa. But groin injuries seldom have a set timetable with goalies, plus Jonas Gustavsson has been playing great in Giggy's absence.

Leafs' Giguere Out at Least a Week

News: Giguere will miss at least one week of action, the Leafs announced Wednesday, according to CBC Sports.
General manager Brian Burke said the injury timetable due to Giguere's groin injury could be as much as two weeks.

Analysis: Jonas Gustavsson should be in line to start several games in a row. We suppose it could have been worse with Giggy, but it's worth noting he's had groin injuries before and he's 33 years old, so an ultra-quick return is probably no sure thing.

Giguere Misses Leafs' Practice

Analysis: It's not really surprising given the fact he pulled himself from Tuesday night's game after experiencing some tightness in his groin. The team will be cautious with this so be may sit out a few games to fully heal. We'll wait on official word from the Buds.

Giguere Starts Against Preds Tuesday

Analysis: He's a must-play in daily leagues as there's only a few games Tuesday night. The Leafs have started to play better and the Preds don't have a lot of firepower; this might just be a good night for the Buds.

Leafs' Giguere Comes Up Lame in Winning Effort Tuesday

News: Giguere sustained an apparent groin injury that resulted in his removing himself from Tuesday's eventual 5-4 win over the Predators, the Toronto Sun reports.

Analysis: Giguere allowed four goals on 28 shots before leaving with 13 minutes left to play, though he was ultimately credited with the victory. Leafs coach Ron Wilson shed some light on the injury to Giguere, who was replaced by Jonas Gustavsson in the contest. "He came over to the bench and said his groin was tight and he wasn't comfortable," Wilson said. "So, he wasn't sure if he should try to finish the game with his past (this type of injury). But Jonas (Gustavsson) went in and made two or three great saves, and that was huge." Despite the win, fantasy owners are probably finding it hard to get 'jiggy' with J-S Giguere this season, and this potential setback only makes it harder to trust him.

Giguere Takes Loss for Leafs

News: Giguere made 27 saves in Saturday's 5-3 loss to Vancouver. He allowed four goals.

Analysis: The fourth one was a stinker through the five-hole from the top of the right circle. It's too bad -- he'd stood tall for the Buds until that point. The team remains mired in a losing streak so Giggy's a risky activation despite his coach's commitment to him. He'll see the bulk of the action in the short term.

Leaf's Giguere to Face Canucks Saturday

News: Giguere is expected to start Saturday against Vancouver, according to the Globe and Mail's James Mirtle.

Analysis: After starting the season with three straight victories, Giggy has gone on to post just one win in his last seven starts. The good news is, he gives his team a chance to win most nights and rarely gets blown out. Unfortunately, it's hard to win games when your team ranks last in the NHL in goals scored. We suggest going with a more viable option in net until the Leafs find a way to right the ship.

Leafs' Giguere Likely Starter Tuesday

News: Giguere was the first goalie off the ice at Tuesday's morning skate, meaning he'll likely get the tap on the pads when the Leafs play the Lightning on Tuesday evening, according to James Mirtle of the Toronto Globe and Mail.

Analysis: The Leafs are back at it again Wednesday at Florida, so there's a decent chance we'll see Jonas Gustavsson for that one. To date, Giguere has been the better netminder with a 4-3-2, 2.31, .910 line to Monster's 1-2-1, 2.71, .910.

Giggy: 21 Saves in Toronto Loss

News: Giguere made 21 saves in Tuesday's 3-2 loss to Ottawa.

Analysis: Two of the goals came on the power play; the other came on a penalty shot. He may be 4-3-1 but he has just one win in his last five games. Sit him until the Leafs figure out how to stay out of the penalty box. And score.

Giggy Tapped for Leafs' Tuesday Start

Analysis: He got no support from his mates Saturday night; maybe things will be different Tuesday. The Leafs played well the last time they faced the Sens so they could be in line for a decent night. Roll him with caution and cross your fingers.

Leafs' Giguere Tabbed to Start Against Rangers Saturday

News: Giguere will start Saturday against the Rangers, according to AM640's Jonas Siegel.

Analysis: Giguere and the Leafs have been better than anyone expected so far this season. Giggy himself has a tidy 4-1-1 record but has just one win in his last three starts. He makes for decent second-string fantasy goaltender but don't pin your hopes on him on a nightly basis.

Giggy Solid in Toronto Win

News: Giguere made 21 saves on Tuesday night in a 3-1 win over the Panthers.

Analysis: Before the game, he made some pointed comments about the team's recent lack of effort -- including himself -- and the team obviously listened. He was named the name's best player by the Leafs' radio broadcaster. He's best activated on a match-up basis right now until the Leafs can maintain a consistent effort in front of him.

Leafs to Get Giggy On Tuesday

News: Giguere will pick up another start Tuesday when the Leafs take on the Panthers, according to James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail.

Analysis: That will give him six starts to Jonas Gustavsson's two so far this season, a good sign for anyone who took Giguere and hoped he'd get a better portion of the time share. Stats-wise, the two have been almost identical so far. Giguere's 3-1-1 record, 2.56 GAA and .900 save percentage aren't bad, but he could start to lose some of his PT advantage over The Monster as the season wears on unless he starts to separate himself in the numerical columns.

Leafs Get Giggy Against Flyers

News: Giguere will start Saturday against the Flyers, according to a report on Toronto's FAN590.

Analysis: The Flyers haven't been firing on all cylinders but the Leafs are coming off their worst effort of the season. Giggy is not an island; he needs his team to help him deliver the wins. And we're a little concerned about their effort level after Thursday's sluggish work. Roll someone else if you have them; this is a crapshoot.

Giguere: Will Start Just One of Next Two

News: Giguere and Jonas Gustavsson will split the Leafs' next two games, reports Toronto's AM640.

Analysis: Coach Ron Wilson told reporters they'd just have to show up Thursday night when the Buds face the Rangers at home to find out who is the starter that night. The team plays in Philly on Saturday so either game is a decent start for each netminder.

Leafs' Giguere Loses in OT

News: Giguere made 18 saves and forced overtime Monday against the Islanders, but couldn't stop John Tavares in overtime. The Leafs lost 2-1.

Analysis: The Leafs remain undefeated so far this season and would have had the win had it not been for Dwayne Roloson in the Isles' net. Giggy didn't face a lot of rubber but he didn't have much of a shot on the Tavares one-timer on the power play.

Toronto Gets Giggy Monday

News: Giguere will start Monday against the Islanders, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: The Isles are playing gritty hockey right now and have a 2-1-2 record to show for it. And they also have John Tavares back on the ice so this isn't an automatic victory for Giggy and the Buds, particularly after the former's shaky effort Saturday. Use someone else if you have them; activate and pray if you don't.

Leafs to Start Giguere Friday Against Rangers

Analysis: Giguere has been a key factor in the Leafs' 3-0 start to the season. Who knows how long before the team comes back to earth, but Giggy owners might as well roll him and enjoy the ride while it lasts.

Leafs' Giggy Wins Again

News: Giguere made 17 saves in a 5-1 win over the Senators on Saturday.

Analysis: He would have had a shutout but a fluky bounce on a potential icing call delivered the puck to a Senators' stick; Giggy had relaxed and the puck blew past him. He's off to a great start; he has his game on. Use him while the Leafs are hot.

Leafs Get Giggy Saturday

Analysis: Coach Ron Wilson will ride the hot hand to avoid a repeat of Toronto's horrid start last season. Expect them to roll Jonas Gustavsson once a week; Giggy will get the majority of starts. He's playing well; use him unless you have a much better option.

Giggy Leads Toronto to Win

News: Giguere put in a strong performance in Toronto's opening game Thursday night. He made 26 saves in a 3-2 win over Montreal.

Analysis: Barring an injury or a complete implosion, Giggy is bound to get about 50 games this season. His defense corps is theoretically better than last season so he should be able to deliver 27 or 28 wins with above-average ratios. He'll probably be a much better option between the pipes than most people first believed.

Leafs' Giguere Gets Opening Night Tap on Pads

News: Giguere is expected to start in goal Thursday in the season-opener against the Canadiens, according to Canadiens beat writer Arpon Basu.

Analysis: The defensive-oriented Leafs will rely on both Giguere and Jonas Gustavsson this season, but Giguere seems to have the edge in potential playing time for now. Getting off to a good start against their division and country rivals will only help.

Toronto Net Gets Giggy Friday Night

News: Giguere will get his first preseason start Friday against the Flyers, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: Giggy has already been named the number one man but will be pushed hard by Jonas Gustavsson. And coach Ron Wilson is willing to let them duke it out. "The only way to get the number one and keep it is to get off to a good start and play well," said Wilson. "If you give up your spot in the saddle, someone may take it."

Giggy to Ease into Action

News: Giguere will play in just one of the Leafs' first five exhibition games, reports the Toronto Star.

Analysis: He joins defender Tomas Kaberle in the press box early in the preseason as coach Ron Wilson evaluates the rest of the team's players. The Leafs have a lot of up-and-comers between the pipes and the coach needs to determine which two of them are the best fit for the AHL Marlies.

Giggy's Top Dog?

News: Coach Ron Wilson says Giguere is the Leafs' number one starter right now, according to a tweet by 640 Toronto's Jonas Seigel.

Analysis: We aren't convinced that will be the case by midseason as Jonas Gustavsson is supposed to the the goalie of the future. Move him up your cheat sheet, though -- the Buds may have the best blue line in the league and keeping the puck out of the net should be relatively easy.

Giguere to have some competition

News: The Maple Leafs have signed goaltender Jonas Gustavsson to a $2.7-million, two-year contract extension. The team announced the deal on Thursday, keeping the 25-year-old Swede from becoming a restricted free agent this summer. Gustavsson will battle Jean-Sebastien Giguere for playing time in 2010-11.

Analysis: Giguere had another rocky season in 2009-10, splitting time between Anaheim and Toronto. When he lost the starting job in Anaheim to Jonas Hiller, the Ducks shipped Giguere to Toronto, where he had shutouts in his first two appearances. Giguere then began to struggle and eventually entered a goalie rotation with Gustavsson. He finished the season 10-15-7 with a 2.85 GAA and .907 save percentage. Giguere, who is entering the final season of his contract, will battle with Gustavsson for the starting job in training camp. That severely reduces his Fantasy outlook. Giguere will be at best a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.

Giguere helps Leafs edge Canadiens

News: In his final game of the season, Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 34 saves Saturday in a 4-3 OT win over the Canadiens.

Analysis: Giguere has one more year in his deal and will likely start 2010-11 the same way he ended this season -- battling Jonas Gustavsson for playing time. He will be worth a a mid-round pick as a flier low-end No. 2 goalie unless his situation changes this offseason. The Leafs TG will remains just a low-end option to begin with.

Giggy on wrong end of shutout

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 21 saves during a 2-0 loss to the Flyers on Tuesday. Claude Giroux gave the Flyers a 1-0 lead at 10:59 of the first period, just six seconds after Mikhail Grabovski had been sent off for roughing. The 22-year-old took a nice pass from Danny Briere and beat Giguere for his 16th goal of the season. It was the only goal Philadelphia would need, as Brian Boucher made 23 saves in his 100th career win.

Analysis: Giguere came to Toronto in February with a fresh beginning after being traded out of Anaheim. He started well with consecutive shutouts, but the tide quickly turned and Giguere has even ended up sharing time with Jonas Gustavsson. Giguere is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Giguere beats Miller, Sabres

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 22 shots against the Sabres on Thursday, as Toronto beat Buffalo for first time in six meetings this season. Fredrik Sjostrom lit the lamp with an empty-netter at 19:23 of the third period to make it a 4-2 final. Giguere won for the first time in his last three starts, handing Sabres G Ryan Miller a rare loss.

Analysis: Giguere isn't playing poorly, posting a 2-2-1 reocrd in his last five starts, allowing 14 goals in that span. But he's sharing starts with Jonas Gustavsson, which limits his Fantasy value. Giguere is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Pens' assault too much for Giggy

News:Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis scored in a shootout against Jean-Sebastien Giguere, as Pittsburgh escaped with a 5-4 win Sunday against Toronto. Giguere battled back from a 3-2 deficit to take a 4-3 lead in the third before Matt Cooke tied the game at 17:12. Giguere made 41 saves while starting instead of Jonas Gustavsson, who won his seventh in a row Saturday as the Maple Leafs rallied to beat the New York Rangers 3-2. "Jean-Sebastien made a number of great saves and is probably the reason we got a point," coach Ron Wilson said.

Analysis: Giguere has pretty much been in a rotation with Gustavsson the last few weeks ever since the rookie netminder began his winning streak. It's a sad development for Giguere, who was initially given the keys to the kingdom after his February acquisition. Giguere is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Panthers maul Giguere, Leafs

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 25 saves during a 4-1 loss to the Panthers on Tuesday. Giguere allowed only one goal through the first two periods before Florida extended its lead to three goals midway through the third. Fredrik Sjostrom closed the gap to 2 at 17:40 before Jason Garrison scored into an empty net to seal Giguere's fate. Giguere lost for the second time in three starts.

Analysis: Giguere came to Toronto in February with the promise of being the regular netminder for the Maple Leafs. Unfortunately, he started to struggle after a few strong wins and now shares time in net with Jonas Gustavsson. Giguere is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Giguere has huge win over Devils

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 24 saves, and then allowed only one goal in the shootout, as Toronto beat New Jersey, 2-1, on Thursday. Giguere held a 1-0 lead until David Clarkson tied it with 4:14 left in the second period. Giguere allowed a goal to Zach Parise in the shootout and stopped Patrik Elias as Toronto made all three of its shots against Yann Danis.

Analysis: Giguere won for the second time in three outings, but he has allowed less than three goals just twice in his last eight outings. Even with Jonas Gustavsson playing well, the Maple Leafs are still leaning on Giguere for the stretch run. We can't view Giguere as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Honeymoon over for Giguere, Leafs

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 28 saves for Toronto during a 4-1 loss to the Islanders on Sunday. Giguere actually was given a 1-0 lead 57 seconds into the first. However, it didn't even last two minutes as Tim Jackman scored the equalizer at 2:51. Richard Park's short-handed score at 8:55 turned out to be the winner. Giguere didn't win for the sixth time in seven outings.

Analysis: The honeymoon is over in Toronto for Giguere, who posted consecutive shutouts in his first two starts since coming over in a trade from Anaheim. Perhaps it is not entirely his fault, but Giguere hasn't improved on his Fantasy value all that much, if he keeps losing. We can't view Giguere as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Giguere ends winless streak Thursday

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 30 saves during a 4-3 overtime win against the Lightning on Thursday. Giguere blew a pair of one-goal leads after rallying from a one-goal deficit before Phil Kessel scored the winner 3:33 into overtime. Giguere won for the first time in six appearances.

Analysis: Giguere began his Toronto career on the right foot with consecutive shutouts, but then Toronto showed its true colors and Giguere has since struggled for wins. It still won't be enough to pull him from net since Toronto is committed to playing the veteran down the stretch. However, we can't view Giguere as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.

Giguere now a month without a win

Analysis: Giguere's last win came on Feb. 6, although you do have to take into consideration the two-week Olympic break. Still, JSG is not getting Giggy with it at the moment and you have to think Toronto will turn to Jonas Gustavsson a little more over the next couple of weeks if this Giguere skid continues. Giguere is barely worth using as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option in deeper leagues for Week 21 (March 8-14), while the Leafs TG should continue to be avoided if at all possible.

Giguere remains winless

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 29 saves during Thursday's 3-2 shootout loss to the Bruins. He has not recorded a win in his last four starts.

Analysis: Giguere has dropped his last four starts stretching back to before the break. His record falls to 6-12-5 on the year and he really only has low-end Fantasy value the way he's been playing. The Maple Leafs TG is a low-end option.

Giguere continues to struggle

News: Toronto continued to struggle on Tuesday as they opened the post-Olympic NHL season against Carolina. The Maple Leafs were down 5-0 before scoring their first goal late in the third period. Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped just 25 of the 30 shots he faced for the loss.

Analysis: Giguere has dropped his last three starts stretching back to before the break. His record falls to 6-11-5 on the year and he really only has low-end Fantasy value the way he's been playing. The Maple Leafs TG is a low-end option.

Giguere watches other goalie net SO

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 29 saves during a 4-0 loss to the Blues on Friday. Andy McDonald scored the only goal St. Louis needed 14:22 into the first. On a 3-on-1 break, Erik Johnson's initial shot was stopped by Giguere, but Patrik Berglund grabbed the loose rebound and fed McDonald alone by the right post. McDonald jammed the puck past Giguere for his 19th goal of the season. St. Louis scored twice short-handed in the second to put the game away.

Analysis: Giguere has now lost his last two starts with Toronto after winning his first two -- both shutouts. Perhaps Fantasy owners got overly excited by Giguere's hot start with his new team. He is going to start most of the time down the stretch, but don't forget Toronto is still a bottom dweller. Giguere is just a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Maple Leafs TG is a low-end option.

Giggy still can't beat Sharks

News:Ryane Clowe scored with less than seven minutes left in the third period, leading the San Jose Sharks to a 3-2 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday night and sending Jean-Sebastien Giguere to his first loss since being acquired from Anaheim on Jan. 31. Giguere had a 1-0 lead after the first period before San Jose scored twice in the first 5:41 of the second. The game was tied heading into the third before Clowe got the go-ahead score.

Analysis: Giguere had won his first two starts with his new team, both shutouts. But they were against Eastern Conference foes. Giggy went up against a familiar opponent, San Jose, on Monday and the results were the same -- a loss. Giguere is 0-3-0 in three outings against San Jose. Luckily, he won't have to face them again this season. Giguere is going to see most of the starts down the stretch for Toronto, so he is a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Maple Leafs TG is a low-end start.

Giguere to get start Monday

News: 640AM out of Toronto reports that Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who has back-to-back shutouts in his first two games for his new team, will start Monday vs. the Sharks.

Analysis: Toronto plays three times in Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 8-14), with no back-to-back games. So, Giguere could well start all of those contests if he stays hot on Monday. Jonas Gustavsson might get a look too though, but with the way Giguere is playing right now he's definitely worth a look in deeper leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for the scoring period. The Leafs TG is probably not worth risking until the team starts to win a little more.

Giguere still to be beaten as a Leaf

News: Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 30 saves Saturday as he picked up his second straight shutout since coming over in a trade from the Ducks.

Analysis: Brian Burke is looking like a genius right now, as Giguere has looked unstoppable since arriving in Toronto last week. His two shutouts have been against solid teams in New Jersey and Ottawa, and if he gets the call Monday vs. San Jose he will try for a superb hat trick of shutouts. While Jonas Gustavsson will steal the odd start here and there from Giguere, you have to think Ron Wilson has to run with the veteran right now until he lets a goal or two in. Giguere might be worth a shot in deeper leagues as a No. 2 option for Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 8-14), but you might want to give the Toronto TG a little more time before using that unit.

Giguere blanks Devils Tuesday

News: Toronto G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was fantastic in net on Tuesday against the New Jersey Devils. Giguere stopped 30 shots on Tuesday as the Devils took 30. That's right, the netminder earned his second shutout of the season in the 3-0 win. The win improves his record on the year to 5-8-5.

Analysis: Giguere is likely better than his record indicates but sadly plays for an awful team in Toronto. He had not won a start since Dec. 8 before this shutout. The Maple Leafs are ready to use Giguere consistently for the foreseeable future and that makes him a sleeper Fantasy option in deeper leagues, especially after this performance. Still, you can't expect too much from the Maple Leafs. The TG Maple Leafs have low-end Fantasy appeal.

Giguere blanks Devils Tuesday

News: Toronto G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was fantastic in net on Tuesday against the New Jersey Devils. Giguere stopped 30 shots on Tuesday as the Devils took 30. That's right, the netminder earned his second shutout of the season in the 3-0 win. The win improves his record on the year to 5-8-5.

Analysis: Giguere is likely better than his record indicates but sadly plays for an awful team in Toronto. He had not won a start since Dec. 8 before this shutout. The Maple Leafs are ready to use Giguere consistently for the foreseeable future and that makes him a sleeper Fantasy option in deeper leagues, especially after this performance. Still, you can't expect too much from the Maple Leafs. The TG Maple Leafs have low-end Fantasy appeal.

Giguere to start Wed. and often

News: 640AM radio out of Toronto reports that Maple Leafs G Jean-Sebastien Giguere will start on Wednesday and get the bulk of starts down the stretch this season.

Analysis: While this is semi-good news for Giguere's Fantasy owners, the Leafs will have to prove they can win a little more often before the former Duck can be trusted in anything but the deepest of leagues. On the other hand, this is very bad news for Jonas Gustavsson's owners, as The Monster was expected to get a heavy dose of action Feb.-Apr. He will now apparently just get the odd start here and there if JS-G can play up to the level he's capable of. Giguere remains a sleeper candidate for the rest of the way, while Gustavsson is pretty much just a No. 3 option in deeper leagues unless his situation improves. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal until further notice.

Analysis: Don't forget the history that Burke has with Giguere. He was his goalie when Burke was GM in Anaheim and the Ducks won the Stanley Cup in 2006-07. Toronto also has Giguere's old goalie coach in Francois Allaire. This seemed like a necessary move for Anaheim after signing Jonas Hiller to a four-year extension on Saturday. The trade might not be bad for Giguere, who was pulling backup duty in Anaheim. He will now compete with Jonas Gustavsson in Toronto, and if he gets hot, he could start a considerable amount down the stretch. We aren't buying the entire farm on Giguere just yet. But he can be a sleeper in Fantasy. The Maple Leafs TG has low-end Fantasy appeal until further notice.

Giguere falters in third period

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 44 saves during a 5-1 loss to the Capitals on Wednesday. Giguere had his best frame in the second period as he made 16 saves and kept Washington off the board as Anaheim tied the game at 1. Unfortunately, he fell apart in the third period as Washington scored four times on 14 shots.

Analysis: Giguere shouldn't be ashamed that the top-scoring team in the NHL got the best of him Wednesday. He did make 44 saves. No, it's just a shame he is winless in his last seven appearances and has allowed five goals in three of those outings. He is not doing his best job with what little appearances he is getting these days. Jonas Hiller is the unquestioned starter for Anaheim, so Giguere has become a bad Fantasy play. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere coping with backup role

News:The Sports Xchange reports with an uneasy smile, Jean-Sebastien Giguere likened himself to a stock whose value is at rock bottom. The veteran goalie with some credentials that other netminders could only dream of having has basically been reduced to working up a good sweat and using the shots he faces from teammates in morning skates as the main way to stay sharp while game after game passes without the hope of starting. It is a trying time for the 2003 Conn Smythe Trophy winner and 2007 Stanley Cup champion goalie. The Ducks have turned to Jonas Hiller for their playoff push. "You're mentally pushing yourself, trying to stay with it and trying to stay positive," Giguere said. "The day-to-day grind of it is exhausting. But you know, it's the situation. I believe I can grow from it and I can be a better player from this kind of situation."

Analysis: Hiller is the clear No. 1 -- the Ducks started him in the net for a 10th consecutive game in Saturday night's 4-3 shootout win over the St. Louis Blues. Giguere has played in just five games since Dec. 11, starting only three. And it doesn't appear that he'll necessarily get a start on this six-game road trip, even with games on back-to-back nights in Atlanta and Washington next week. Ducks coach Randy Carlyle was noncommittal when asked how much consideration he's given in playing Giguere in order to keep the 32-year-old game ready. "Right now in the situation we're in, Jonas has played to a level where I think he's earned his opportunity and I'll continue to make that assessment as we go on," Carlyle said."If he shows any sign of being tired or not sharp, then I've got no problems going to Jiggy." Anaheim could be in the market to trade Giguere, who is under contract through next season, for an expiring deal. But the fact remains Giguere has become a bad option in Fantasy as long as he in Anaheim and Giguere is healthy.

Giguere makes 13 relief saves

News:Jonas Hiller stopped 10 shots before getting pulled in the second period by the Ducks during a 4-0 loss to the Kings on Thursday. Hiller was yanked after allowing Dustin Brown to score 12:43 into the second to put Los Angeles up 3-0. Jean-Sebastien Giguere replaced Hiller and stopped 13 of 14 shots.

Analysis: Giguere has made only two appearances in January because Hiller carried a five-game winning streak into Thursday. Giguere has been pretty inconsistent since last season and it has cost him his starting job in Anaheim. He is pretty much playing like a backup netminder, so Giguere is a poor Fantasy start until further notice.

Giguere allows five goals again

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 23 saves during a 5-2 loss to the Blackhawks on Sunday. the game was scoreless until Kris Versteeg opened the scoring 6:21 into the second. Chicago scored five unanswered goals before Anaheim scored late in the third period. Giguere is winless in five appearances and has allowed five goals in each of his last two outings.

Analysis: Giguere had this nice little three-game winning streak in late November and was playing well up until mid-December. But he has undone all that good in his last few starts and that has allowed Jonas Hiller to forge ahead of him in a tight goalie battle. Giguere is still going to see starts, but he remains more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Gigure allows five goals Saturday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed five goals on just 25 shots Saturday as Anaheim fell 5-2 to the Sharks.

Analysis: After a decent November, Giguere has regressed in December with a GAA well over three. He's clearly only worth risking in very deep leagues as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option right now. The Ducks TG is also a secondary choice.

Hiller removed for Giguere in loss

News: Anaheim G Jonas Hiller struggled early in Tuesday's game against Colorado before his Ducks teammates rallied to earn him a win late in the game. No such thing happened on Wednesday against Phoenix, however, as Hiller was pulled after two periods and three goals allowed. He stopped 25 shots on 28 attempts and was removed before the 3rd period for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who allowed one goal and made three saves. Phoenix won the game 4-0.

Analysis: Hiller took the loss on Wednesday and that snaps his four-game winning streak. His record falls to 11-10-2 on the year. Giguere remains 4-5-5 on the season. Hiller and Giguere split time in net and that makes each just a No. 3 Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere drops game to Sharks

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 33 saves during a 4-1 loss to the Sharks on Thursday. Giguere never led in the game and allowed only one power-play goal. He is winless in his last two starts.

Analysis: Giguere has won only once in his last six outings and is starting to undo all the good he did in late November. It hasn't entirely been his fault since the Ducks offense continues to sputter. However, Giguere is still sharing time in net with Jonas Hiller. Giguere is more of a No. 3 Fantasy netminder. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere lets win slip away

News:Todd Bertuzzi tied it midway through the third period and scored a power-play goal 1:07 into overtime past Jean-Sebastien Giguere to give Detroit a 3-2 comeback victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Friday. Bertuzzi beat Giguere high on the short side from the bottom of the right circle, as he skated from behind the net, in overtime. "I think it's just being in the league for a while and knowing goaltenders and playing with Giggy," Bertuzzi said, "and knowing he likes to hug the post. There's not a lot of room up there but just enough to squeak it in." Giguere carried a 2-0 lead into the third before Detroit evened up the score within the first 10 minutes. He finished with 28 saves.

Analysis: With the way the Anaheim offense has been erratic the last few weeks, Giguere can't afford to let games slip out of his grasp. He dominated the first two periods before Detroit turned up the heat in the third on Friday. Giguere has only one win in four December appearances. He is still not having awful nights in net, but he continues to share time in net with Jonas Hiller. Giguere is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy netminder. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere tightens screws for OT win

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up two goals in the 1st period and one in the 2nd as the Dallas Stars had a 3-0 lead over his Ducks early in the Tuesday night contest. Giguere tightened the screws from there, however, and did not allow a single goal the rest of the way. The Ducks tied the score by scoring the final three goals in regulation and then won the game in overtime for Giguere.

Analysis: Giguere avoided losing in overtime for the third time in his last four starts and overturned a three-game losing streak on Tuesday. The losing streak came on the heels of a three-start winning streak and that has his record at 4-4-4 on the year with one shutout. That shutout came with November ending but hes been pretty poor otherwise of late. He is still the clear No. 1 option for the Ducks but think of Giguere and the Ducks TG as No. 2 Fantasy options for now.

Giguere now winless in three

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves Sunday as Anaheim fell 4-3 to the Senators after a shootout. Giguere is now winless in his last three starts.

Analysis: While Giguere didn't win on Sunday, he seems to have his mitts firmly back on the No. 1 spot in Anaheim with Jonas Hiller playing so poorly lately. Think of Giguere and the Ducks TG as No. 2 Fantasy options for now.

Giguere loses game in third period

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 34 shots during a 3-1 loss to the Stars on Thursday. Giguere made a 1-0 lead hold up through two periods. He stopped 12 shots in the first and 18 more in the second. Then, Dallas figured him out with two goals in the first three minutes of the third period. Dallas finished off Anaheim with an empty-net goal. Giguere is winless in his last two starts.

Analysis: Despite going winless in his last two outings, Giguere has played well enough to be a on a five-game win streak. He just isn't getting a lot of offensive support. Giguere has been playing well over the last few weeks and seems to be emerging as the Ducks' top goalie. However, Jonas Hiller is still in the mix. Giguere is back to being a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie with room to improve. The Ducks TG has potential to be a high-end option, but right now is more of a No. 2 start.

Giguere has win streak snapped

News:Jim Vandermeer scored his second goal of the game at 1:18 of overtime past Jean-Sebastien Giguere, leading the Phoenix Coyotes to a 3-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday night. Giguere made 23 saves after getting his 32nd career shutout Friday night in a 3-0 win over Chicago. He held a 1-0 lead into the third before Vandermeer scored his first goal 5:28 into the final frame. The loss snapped a three-game win streak for Giguere.

Analysis: Despite the loss, Giguere has allowed only seven goals in his last four games. This is his best stretch of hockey in a very long time. He finally seems focused in net and ready to reclaim his job as the starting netminder in Anaheim. Jonas Hiller is still in the picture, but Giguere is back to being a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie with room to improve. The Ducks TG has potential to be a high-end option, but right now is more of a No. 2 start.

Giguere posts SO over red hot Hawks

News:Teemu Selanne scored twice on the power play, defenseman Nick Boynton also connected with the man advantage and Jean-Sebastien Giguere posted his first shutout of the season, leading the Anaheim Ducks to a 3-0 victory on Friday that snapped the Chicago Blackhawks' eight-game winning streak. Giguere made 28 saves in his 32nd career shutout, continually frustrating a high-powered offense that had outscored its opponents 34-13 during the streak -- which fell one game short of tying the franchise record set last December. The victory was Anaheim's third in a row, marking Giguere's first three-game winning streak since last December.

Analysis: Giguere has been playing well ever since he said he wanted a chance to win back his starting job from Jonas Hiller. Instead of talking all the time, Giguere is finally producing on the ice. Hiller isn't having a great run, so this could be Giguere's opportunity to indeed get back the full-time gig. He is worth starting in Fantasy while he is on a roll and probably worth adding in all formats as well. The Ducks TG has potential to be a high-end option, but right now is more of a No. 2 start.

Giguere hangs on for 3-2 win

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere ended up with a 3-2 win on Wednesday, beating the Hurricanes. Giguere allowed a goal to Brandon Sutter with 53 seconds to go that gave the Hurricanes some signs of life. Giguere's record improved to 2-3-2 on the season with the win.

Analysis: Giguere lost his job to Jonas Hiller last season and had failed to pick up a win in each of his first five starts before winning each of his past two. He missed six games with a strained groin before returning two weeks ago, but the veteran has looked decent in his last two starts. Giguere should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere comes up big in 1st win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 41 saves in his first victory of the season despite allowing Jarome Iginla's tying goal with 18 seconds left in regulation, and Teemu Selanne scored the only shootout goal in the Anaheim Ducks' 3-2 victory over the Calgary Flames on Monday. Giguere had turned away 17 shots in a busy third period until Iginla and Olli Jokinen teamed up on a long rush in the waning seconds. Anaheim's poor defensive coverage left Iginla to skate in alone, and the Calgary captain buried a quick shot for his 16th goal of the season, and his 12th in 10 games. The shootout began inauspiciously for Anaheim when Corey Perry fumbled the puck at mid-ice and had to go back for it before Miikka Kiprusoff stopped his weak shot. Ryan Getzlaf also failed, but Nigel Dawes and Jokinen couldn't score for Calgary. Glencross missed the net after Selanne's goal, prompting Giguere to thrust his stick high in the air in celebration.

Analysis: Giguere, the Ducks' longtime starter and former playoff MVP before losing his job to Jonas Hiller last season, was 0-3-2 this fall with unimpressive statistics. He missed six games with a strained groin before returning two weeks ago, but the veteran looked sharp under Calgary's strong third-period attack. Giguere really needed a performance like this to get his confidence up. Let's hope he can build off of it. Giguere is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere remains winless on Monday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 21 saves during a 5-2 loss to the Penguins on Monday. Giguere never led in the game and allowed two special teams goals (one short-handed). The Penguins capped the win with an empty-net goal. Giguere remains winless (0-3-2) on the season.

Analysis: Giguere has made two starts since returning from a groin injury, but still hasn't managed to pick up his first win. The Ducks aren't having a great start to the season and Giguere's competition, Jonas Hiller, is also struggling. The two will continue to share time in net until one emerges from the pack. Giguere is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere drops shootout decision Fri.

News: Ducks goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 27 saves in his first start since Oct. 24. during Friday's 3-2 shootout loss against the Blue Jackets. Giguere made just one save in the shootout as Kristian Huselius and Rick Nash scored. Giguere also blew a pair of one-goal leads in the game.

Analysis: Giguere remains winless on the season for Anaheim. He recently stated he wants a chance to win back his starting job from Jonas Hiller. He made a strong effort on Friday, but Giguere has a long way to go in order to become a full-time goalie again. Giguere is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 option.

Giguere takes back retirement talk

News: The Orange County Register reports that Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere has taken back his retirement talk from the other day. "I want to be part of this team," Giguere said Wednesday. "I want to be a No. 1 here in Anaheim. This is the team I've been playing for the last 10 years. I absolutely love playing here. I think this team has great potential. I want to be here."

Analysis: Giguere is upset he is stuck in a rotation with Jonas Hiller, but his poor play since last season has put him in this situation. Giguere is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice.

Giguere returns as backup Wednesday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere dressed for the first time on Wednesday against the Devils since suffering a groin strain on Oct. 24. He backed up Jonas Hiller in a 3-1 loss.

Analysis: While Giguere is ready for action, we are not surprised he was on the bench Wednesday. Anaheim would like to ease him back into action. Giguere is upset he is stuck in a rotation with Hiller, but his poor play since last season has put him in this situation. Giguere is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice.

Giguere doesn't want to be a backup

News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere would rather retire than be a backup. "I'd rather retire than be a backup goalie," said Giguere. "Something needs to happen. You get a guy like (Jonas Hiller) that's going to be a free agent at the end of the year and myself, making the money I'm making, either I'm leaving or he's leaving."

Analysis: Giguere only has himself to blame for being a backup goalie after his struggles last season and his injuries, but there's still a chance he could redeem himself over the next couple of weeks and force Hiller to the bench. Of course, the Ducks could also ship him off to a team that needs help between the pipes. Don't start Giguere in any leagues just yet, but if he starts to show some signs of life you might be able to use him soon.

Giguere appears ready for action

News:The Orange County Register reports the Ducks reassigned goalie Justin Pogge to Bakersfield of the ECHL on Monday, indicating Jean-Sebastien Giguere is ready to return from a groin injury as Anaheim opens a four-game road trip.

Analysis: Giguere will help shore up the Anaheim goalie situation now that he is back ready for action. He might not start immediately, but will be able to backup Jonas Hiller, who had mixed results in Giguere's absence. Start Hiller as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie in Week 6 (Nov. 9-15). Giguere is a low-end start, if you are feeling lucky.

Giguere might return for road trip

News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere missed his sixth consecutive game on Saturday against the Coyotes because of a strained groin muscle aggravated late in a 6-4 loss to visiting Columbus on Oct. 24. Giguere returned to practice Nov. 2 and has been targeted by coach Randy Carlyle to be ready for at least backup duty when the Ducks open a four-game road swing Nov. 11 against New Jersey.

Analysis: Giguere might finally return to action in Week 6 (Nov. 9-15), but it doesn't sound as though he is ready for extensive action. Keep Giguere reserved for at least one more week. When healthy, he is splitting time in net with Jonas Hiller, so consider him a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie.

Giguere likely to rest for a few days

News: NHL.com reports that G Jean-Sebastien Giguere re-injured his groin on Saturday and isn't likely to play much this week. "I think I need to give it a couple of days of rest and see what's going to happen," he said. "We're not too concerned about it, but I think yesterday was a bit of a lesson that you've got to give it time and make sure it's ready. We have great trainers who know what they're doing and right now I don't foresee this being a problem."

Analysis: You know the Ducks are going to be extra careful with Giguere now that he's already hurt his groin twice and capable backup Jonas Hiller wating in the wings. Don't start Giguere in Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 26-Nov. 1) unless you really have to. Hiller will be worth using as a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 option as he should get all three starts against Toronto, Vancouver and Phoenix. The Ducks TG will also have similar value.

Giguere hurt late in loss to Jackets

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere left Saturday's loss to the Blue Jackets with just 2:30 remaining as he appeared to tweak a groin. Giguere allowed five goals on 35 shots.

Analysis: Giguere was dealing with this groin problem earlier this week, but the Ducks clearly thought he was feeling well enough to start on Saturday. Keep an eye on Giguere's status heading into Monday's lineup deadline, but you should probably plan on being without him for the period. Jonas Hiller will likely start in his place. The Ducks TG remains a decent No. 1 option.

Giguere able to dress after all

News: The Ducks recalled rookie G Justin Pogge from Bakersfield of the ECHL to serve as backup because of Jean-Sebastien Giguere's groin injury. But Giguere was able to take part in the pregame warmup Wednesday against Dallas, and Pogge was sent right back to Bakersfield.

Analysis: Giguere didn't feel as though his injury was that big of a deal and it seems as though it isn't. Giguere continues to split time in net with Jonas Hiller, and until that arrangement changes, Giguere is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie.

Hiller pulled in second period

News: Anaheim G Jonas Hiller was pulled 5:28 into the second period of Saturday's 5-0 loss to the Blues. Hiller faced 12 total shots in the game and allowed three of them in before getting pulled in favor of Jean-Sebastien Giguere. The loss dropped Giguere's record on the season to 3-2-0. Giguere wasn't much better than Hiller, allowing two more goals and making 18 saves.

Analysis: Hiller continues to lose starts to Giguere in Anaheim but has gotten the bulk of them. However, both Giguere and Hiller's values are both diminished by each other's presence, making both options only useful in deeper leagues and as a flier in formats that use averages. The Ducks TG on the other hand has high-end appeal with both Hiller and Giguere splitting the work.

Third-period barrage dooms Giguere

News:Ales Kotalik's power-play goal past Jean-Sebastien Giguere snapped a third-period tie, and backup Steve Valiquette made 18 saves in the Rangers' fourth straight victory, 3-0 over the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday. Kotalik fired a shot from the bottom of the left circle that clipped Ducks defenseman Scott Niedermayer's stick and caromed up and over Giguere, inside the left post at 2:14. Giguere finished with 35 saves, but had little chance to stop Kotalik's drive. "It's a tough play," Niedermayer said. "You try to get in front of shots, but at the same time if you deflect them by the goalie it's no good, either. It's a tough one the way Giggy was playing. It was probably better to just let him deal with it because he played real well."

Analysis: Giguere made his second start of the season while splitting time with Jonas Hiller. The Ducks wrapped up a four-game road trip 2-1-1, but had their 12-game, road-point streak snapped (9-0-3). "It's a tough way to finish a good road trip," Giguere said. "I don't think we're happy with the game tonight, but I think we're satisfied with the road trip." Giguere is winless in his first two outings, but we just can't see the Ducks going away from him just yet. He will likely continue to split time with Hiller. Consider Giguere a high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Ducks TG is more of a low-end No.1 /high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.

Giguere coughs up big lead Tuesday

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up three goals in the 3rd period and allowed the Minnesota Wild to storm back from three goals down to begin the 3rd frame on Tuesday night. Giguere gave up the three 3rd period goals after leading 3-0 and eventually allowed a game-winning overtime goal as he took the overtime loss, 4-3. Giguere stopped 28 shots on the night.

Analysis: Giguere was making his first start of the season on Tuesday and after two periods all was right with the world. He had a 3-0 lead heading into the final frame and looked like a lock to win. Giguere did not win, however, and instead allowed four consecutive goals in the 3rd and overtime for the OTL. He is just the backup G to Jonas Hiller and Tuesday's contest won't do anything to change that. The Ducks TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option but Giguere is more like a No. 3.

Giguere great in relief

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere tried to make the most of a rare relief appearance. Giguere played a perfect third period, but Viktor Tikhonov scored in the fourth round of the shootout to lead the Coyotes to a 5-4 win over the Ducks on Saturday. Giguere, who took over for starter Jonas Hiller, made the initial save on Tikhonov's shot with his left skate, but his leg and the puck barely crossed the goal line to give the Coyotes the victory. "I made the save and then my pad went in the net and the puck follows," Giguere said. "It was a little lucky but that's the way it goes."

Analysis: Giguere had not been in net since March 27 as Hiller has been given the starts for the Ducks down the stretch of the season. Expect Hiller to at least start of the Western Conference playoffs as the starter. We could have a goalie controversy brewing in Anaheim as both Giguere and Hiller are both under contract for next season. Wait to see how that plays out before making a decision on Giguere or Hiller on Draft Day 2009. The Ducks TG should be a No. 2 option no matter what happens.

Giguere pulled twice vs. Oilers

News: Anaheim goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere was pulled twice during Friday's 5-3 loss to the Oilers and replaced by Jonas Hiller, the first time after giving up two goals on the opening two shots, and the second and last time after allowing two more goals in the second period. Giguere made just three saves, while Hiller stopped all 12 shots he faced and almost got Anaheim back in the game before Edmonton capped the win with an empty netter.

Analysis: Hiller had started five of the previous seven games, but in the two games Giguere got in net, he won. Coach Randy Carlyle gave him every chance Friday to battle for the win, but Giguere struggled. Carlyle might now have to lean on Hiller. Friday's loss was a crushing blow to Giguere, who looks like a shaky Fantasy start heading into Week 26 (March 30-April 5). The Ducks TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.

Giguere secures much-needed win

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 31 saves in regulation and overtime, then stopped all four skaters he faced in the shootout to record a 2-1 win Tuesday against the Predators. After the first three players for both teams were denied on their shootout attempts, Teemu Selanne skated in on goaltender Pekka Rinne and lifted a backhander just under the crossbar. Giguere then stopped Nashville's Radek Bonk to seal the win for the Ducks.

Analysis: Giguere has won his last two starts, but has made just two appearances since March 7. Coach Randy Carlyle has leaned on goalie Jonas Hiller a bit lately, but with a strong outing Tuesday, Giguere could have earned himself another start. Giguere hasn't had a banner year, so he really can't be trusted as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a No. 2 option.

Giguere starts, gets overtime win

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made his first start since March 6 on Wednesday against the Predators and got a 4-3 overtime win. Giguere made 21 saves in the game, allowing the three goals. He has now allowed three goals in each of his last five appearances with the Ducks.

Analysis: Jonas Hiller got every start for the Ducks over the past 11 days but Giguere was given another shot despite how well Hiller has played. Giguere's record improved to 18-17-5 on the season. However, he cannot be counted on to start every day at the moment and is only a No. 2 Fantasy option at the moment, assuming he'll be getting more starts. The Ducks TG is also a No. 2 option.

Giguere allows three goals on 16 shots

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 13 saves during a 3-2 loss to the Stars Friday. He never led in the game and trailed 2-0 heading into the third. Eriksson beat Giguere high to the glove side with a wrist shot from the left circle just 77 seconds after Anaheim cut the deficit to 2-1 for the eventual game-winning goal. Giguere is 1-2-1 in his last four starts.

Analysis: Giguere hardly faced any shots Friday, but looked awful allowing three goals. He hasn't allowed more than three goals in his last six starts, but has just three wins in that span. Despite all the talent Anaheim possesses, they just haven't looked all that good in 2008-09, including Giguere. Anaheim is in the playoff hunt, but Giguere is more of a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Ducks TG is also a No. 2 option.

Giguere beaten 1:40 into OT

News:Martin Havlat scored 1:40 into overtime past Jean-Sebastien Giguere to give the Chicago Blackhawks a 3-2 victory against the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday night. Havlat broke down the middle from center ice, and despite being pulled down from behind by Anaheim's Corey Perry, he managed to loft a shot past Giguere, who made 34 saves in his sixth consecutive start as the Ducks completed a season-high six-game road trip at 3-2-1.

Analysis: Giguere had battled back from a 2-0 deficit Tuesday to make the game interesting, but couldn't pull off the comeback win. He still hasn't allowed more than three goals in his last five starts and is once again looking like the reliable netminder everyone has come to know. Anaheim is in the playoff hunt, but Giguere is more of a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Ducks TG is also a No. 2 option.

Giguere bounces back for 17th win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 30 shots to win his 200th game for the Ducks during Saturday's 4-3 win against the Stars. The Ducks bounced back after losing 6-0 to Boston on Thursday. Giguere was pulled early in the second period after allowing three goals on the first eight shots he faced. "It's been an up-and-down season for me and for the team," Giguere said. "When these things happen, you want to try to bounce back."

Analysis: Giguere lost a 2-0 lead Saturday, but worked his way back to position himself for his 17th win. It hasn't been a very pleasant season for Giguere, but coach Randy Carlyle is back to trusting him as the team's starting goalie. Anaheim is in the playoff hunt, but Giguere is more of a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Ducks TG is also a No. 2 option.

Giguere can't stop Bruins attack

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed three goals on eight shots before he was replaced at the 3:43 mark of the second period during Thursday's 6-0 loss to the Bruins. Jonas Hiller made 16 saves the remainder of the game while also allowing three scores.

Analysis: Giguere fell apart Thursday after looking strong his previous two starts, both wins. He continues to deliver erratic performances and that not only frustrates the Ducks, but Fantasy owners as well. Anaheim is still in the playoff hunt and expect to lean on Giguere. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until the wins start really rolling in. The Ducks TG is also only a No. 2 option for the time being.

Giguere posts consecutive wins

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 34 shots -- including 26 through the first two periods -- keeping the Anaheim Ducks in the playoff hunt with a 3-2 win over the injury-depleted Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday. Giguere kept the Ducks in the game, especially through the first 30 minutes, in which Anaheim was out-shot 21-6. His best save came midway through the first period, when he got across to the left post in time to stop Patrick Kaleta, who was set up on the doorstep by Derek Roy. Giguere held a 3-1 lead until Ales Kotalik scored a power-play goal with 1:06 left.

Analysis: Giguere has won his last two starts having allowed just four goals in the process. A big step up after allowing 10 goals in his previous two outings. Giggy hasn't been a very reliable goalie this season, but Anaheim is still in the playoff hunt and expect to lean on Giguere. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until the wins start really rolling in. The Ducks TG is also only a No. 2 option for the time being.

Giguere holds off Jackets

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed two goals and made 26 saves in a 5-2 win over the Blue Jackets on Saturday. The win snapped a two-game losing skid in which he had given up 10 goals, five in each game. His record improved to 15-15-4 with the win.

Analysis: Giguere has been up and down this season, and the past few weeks have been no different. It's hard to know what to expect out of him. He can be a No. 1 goalie, but right now can only be thought of as a No. 2 considering his performance this season. The Ducks TG is also only a No. 2 option.

Wings show no mercy to Giggy

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 29 saves during a 5-2 loss to the Red Wings Friday. Giguere actually held a 1-0 lead before Detroit scored four unanswered goals. Power play scores from Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg were the back breakers. Giguere has allowed 10 goals in his last two outings -- both losses.

Analysis: Giguere was just starting to get his confidence back before Atlanta and Detroit brought him back down to earth. It hasn't been a very good season for Giguere, who has also dealt with the loss of his father. Giggy has what it takes to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but is more of a No. 2 option until he gets back on his feet. The Ducks TG is only a No. 2 option right now as well.

Giguere rocked then pulled

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere played only 27:40 seconds in Sunday's game against the Thrashers before getting pulled. He gave up five goals during that span (three to Ilya Kovalchuk) and took what ended up being an 8-4 loss. He was replaced by Jonas Hiller who went on to allow three more goals to the Thrashers.

Analysis: Giguere seemed to be returning to his old self before this "thrashing" at the hands of one of the worst teams in the league at home. We still expect him to do good things down the stretch of the season but he still isn't looking like himself. He should begin looking like a No. 1 Fantasy goalie soon enough. The Ducks TG is only a No. 2 option right now.

Giguere earns a win in overtime

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up two goals and made 21 saves in a 3-2 overtime win over the Flames on Wednesday. Scott Niedermayer scored his eighth goal of the season in the overtime period to give Giguere the win that improved his overall record on the season to 14-13-4.

Analysis: Giguere has won back to back games after having not won one since Jan. 11. Both of the wins came against the Flames who are one of the better teams in the league. He had struggled since the death of his father but may be turning things back around. Expect him to look like the No. 1 goalie we all know he is down the stretch this regular season. Giguere and the Ducks TG is a No. 2 option for now, but expect that to eventually change.

Giguere earns first win in a while

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere recorded his first win since Jan. 11 on Saturday against the Flames. He gave up only one goal in the game to Michael Cammalleri in the third period and went on to pick up the 2-1 victory. Giguere made 26 saves in the game which was his second start in a row.

Analysis: Giguere has struggled this season and especially so since his father passed away a couple of months ago. The Ducks said they'd give him some space, and now he might be back and ready to go. Jonas Hiller was getting most of the starts until this past week as it seems that Giguere will at least be splitting the starts. Giguere can only be used as a No. 2 option until he proves to be his old self. The Ducks TG is also a No. 2 option for now.

Giguere back in net, same struggles

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere started for the first time since the All-Star break Thursday against the Predators, but the result was pretty much the same as he took a 4-2 loss. Giguere made 30 saves, but never led in the game and lost for the fourth straight time. He is 1-6-2 in 10 appearances since his father's death in mid-December.

Analysis: Ducks coach Randy Carlyle has said that he is going to let Giguere work out his personal issues before trusting him as the starting goalie again. Carlyle added that Giguere will return to net as Anaheim's starter eventually, but he just doesn't have a timetable. Keep Giguere reserved in most Fantasy formats until he snaps out of his funk. Jonas Hiller has done an admirable job in net for Anaheim, but view the Ducks TG as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.

Ducks giving Giguere his space

News: Goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere has not played in any of the Ducks four games since the All-Star break and the Orange County Register reports Anaheim intends to give the struggling goaltender his space. Giguere, who last appeared in the Jan. 25 All-Star game for the Western Conference, has gone 1-5-2 with a 3.68 goals-against average and .876 save percentage in nine appearances since his father passed away in mid-December. "What we're trying to do is give Giguere an opportunity to do what he has to do to get his game back," Ducks coach Randy Carlyle said. "The guy is going through a huge loss in his life. He lost his father. We feel we have to give him the time and space, try to create an environment around him that allows him some time. That's the most important thing. We think this is the best route to take in this situation, and we're going to live with it."

Analysis: Fantasy owners shouldn't go into panic mode because Carlyle warns against Giguere hasn't played his last game with the Ducks. "It's not like he's not going to play for our hockey club again," Carlyle said. "He's going to get his opportunity. Jonas Hiller has come in and given us the goaltending that's necessary to have some success here in the last little while, but we're not afraid to go back to Giguere. He knows he's going to get his opportunity. We've talked about it. We've set a plan in place, and we're going to take our approach." The Ducks have back-to-back games Wednesday and Thursday, so there is a chance Giguere could get in net to showcase his worth again. If not, then it's best to keep him reserved in Fantasy until further notice. Giguere has high-end Fantasy potential, especially playing for a contender like Anaheim.

Giguere disappointed in benching

News: The Orange County Register reports that Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was upset with being benched for both of Anaheim's back-to-back games on Tuesday and Wednesday. Its disappointing, Giguere said. But at the same time Randy (Carlyle, coach) is in a situation where we need to win. Right now Im not getting the job done when Im playing. Hes got to coach and thats the decision hes come to. I dont like it, but I have to respect it.

Analysis: Giguere has been struggling since his father passed away in December. He's 1-5-2 since then with a 3.68 GAA. He was having his struggles even before then and it just hasn't been a great year for Giguere. He came into the season as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but after a sub-par first half, he has to be taken down a notch until he gets back on track.

Giguere has ugly All-Star outing

News: Ducks goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere got the start in net for the Western Conference during Sunday's All-Star game. Giguere was given a 1-0 lead and didn't allow the tying goal until 6:26 into the opening frame. But the Eastern Conference scored four unanswered goals and the West trailed 4-2 heading into the second. Giguere got off the hook for the loss as the Western Conference tied the game at 8 in the second period with Niklas Backstrom in net. Giguere made just seven saves.

Analysis: Giguere has been struggling since his father passed away in December. He's 1-5-2 since then with a 3.68 GAA. He was having his struggles even before then and it just hasn't been an All-Star year for Giguere, who got voted in by the fans. Giggy is 12-12-4 with a 3.08 GAA, .904 save percentage and two shutouts. He came into the season as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but after a sub-par first half, he has to be taken down a notch until he gets back on track.

Giguere struggling since father's death

News: The Edmonton Sun reports that Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere has been struggling since his father passed away in December. He's 1-5-2 since then with a 3.68 average.

Analysis: Giguere came into this season as a clear-cut No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but he has failed to live up to expectations. He continues to lose starts here and there to Jonas Hiller and just can't seem to pick up wins on a consistent basis. He's more of a No. 2 option right now, along with the Ducks TG, as Anaheim has lost 11 of its last 16 games.

Giguere embarrassed by Isles Wednesday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed two goals on six shots in the first period of Anaheim's game against the Islanders before getting pulled in favor of Jonas Hiller who shut out the Islanders for the final 45 minutes. Despite Hiller's solid finish to the game, the Ducks went on to lose 2-1 and the loss was credited to Giguere.

Analysis: Giguere is living proof that the All-Star Game is a popularity contest as well as a reward for playing well throughout the season. With this loss, his record falls to 12-12-4 on the season, but he'll be in Montreal this week for the All-Star festivities. Giguere has proven he has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but right now he's not playing even close to as well as his backup Jonas Hiller. The Ducks TG is only a No. 2 option right now until the Ducks figure out how to get Giguere turned around.

Giguere suffers 11th loss

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 21 saves during a 3-1 loss to the Penguins Friday. Matt Cooke scored the first two goals for the Penguins, his second coming 23 seconds into the middle frame, and that's all Pittsburgh would need against the All-Star goalie. Giguere lost for the second straight start.

Analysis: Giguere is 12-11-4 on the season with a GAA over 3.00. It's unreal that he is going to the All-Star game, but the fans voted him in. Well, this is Fantasy and Giguere just isn't getting the job done. He is playing more like a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. He does have No. 1 potential, but needs to have a strong second half to get that status back. The Ducks TG also takes a step back with Giggy struggling.

Giguere's 'W' drought continues

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed four goals in Wednesday's game against Detroit. He stopped 29 shots in a 4-3 loss. Giguere has won just once since Dec. 14.

Analysis: Times have not been great for Giguere in 2008-09, but he is still headed to the All-Star game somehow. The Ducks have the talent to turn their season around in the second half, so don't give up on Giguere just yet. He has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option until Giguere gets back on track.

Giguere notches first January win

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 18 saves during Sunday's 4-3 victory against the Devils for his first win since Dec. 14. Giguere, who allowed one power-play goal, was benched Thursday night in Los Angeles after allowing three goals in the first 21 minutes. He had not won a game (0-2-2) since making 28 saves in a 4-2 victory over Minnesota in December.

Analysis: Times have not been great for Giguere in 2008-09, but he is still headed to the All-Star game. The Ducks have the talent to turn their season around in the second half, so don't give up on Giguere just yet. He has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option until Giguere gets back on track.

Giguere pulled for third time

News: Ducks G Jonas Hiller came on in relief of Jean-Sebastien Giguere Thursday against the Kings and battled back from a two-goal deficit, but he allowed the game winner 7:43 into the third period as Los Angeles escaped with a 4-3 win. Giguere started the game and stopped eight of nine shots in the first period. But when Wayne Simmonds beat him 37 seconds into the second, coach Randy Carlyle pulled him in favor of Hiller, who stopped 14 of 16 shots the rest of the way.

Analysis: Giguere has been pulled just three times this season. Despite the fact he has just 11 wins and a very poor GAA, Giguere is going to the All-Star game. Giguere hasn't had a great season by his standards and is barely hanging onto his status as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. If the Ducks weren't an elite team, he would drop down a notch. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 Fantasy option for the time being.

Giguere takes tough shootout loss

News:Mike Richards scored the only goal in the shootout past Jean-Sebastien Giguere and assisted on goals by Ossi Vannanen, Braydon Coburn and Mike Knuble, leading the Philadelphia Flyers to a 5-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Friday. Giguere blew a 3-1 lead in the second period and allowed Philadelphia to tie the game at 4 with one minute left in the frame. Giguere allowed one power-play goal as he lost for the third time in four starts.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed four goals in three of his last four starts and the wheels are coming off a bit in the last few weeks. It could do him well to sit down a game and rest up physically and mentally. Giguere hasn't had a great season by his standards and is barely hanging onto his status as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. If the Ducks weren't an elite team, he would drop down a notch. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 Fantasy option for the time being.

Giguere becomes Mason victim

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was tagged with his third straight loss since leaving to deal with his father's death. He gave up only two goals and made 27 saves in a 2-0 loss to the Blue Jackets as opposing goalie Steve Mason recorded his third straight shutout.

Analysis: Giguere shut the Blue Jackets out two periods but couldn't hang on to get the win. Giguere has given up 10 goals in the three games since he's been back with the team but Wednesday's performance was easily his best. He should be able to get back in the win column soon so still think of him as a No. 1 goalie. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 option.

Giguere falls in overtime Saturday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made it back to back losses since leaving to deal with his father's death, once again giving up four goals in a 4-3 overtime loss. Giguere had 34 saves in the losing effort, including the game-winner to Mike Modano in the overtime period.

Analysis: Giguere had won four straight decisions before leaving the team. It is understandable that he may be playing with a heavy heart and isn't completely focused yet. However, he is still recommended as a No. 1 goalie for Week 13 (Dec. 29-Jan. 4) and so is the Ducks TG.

Giguere back with Ducks

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere has returned to his team after taking a few days to deal with the death of his father. He is expected to start Tuesday at Calgary, with Jonas Hiller going Monday at Vancouver.

Analysis: Giguere has won his last four decisions and has not allowed more than three goals in his last seven outings. He had to battle off a groin injury and backup Jonas Hiller recently, but Giguere seems a bit more focused as of now after a rough start to the season. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie and the Ducks TG is also a high-end option. Both are fine to start in Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28).

Giguere out until Monday

News: Goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere has left the Anaheim Ducks to return home to Montreal following his father's death. Claude Giguere died Monday. Giguere will miss Friday night's game at Edmonton and will rejoin the Ducks before Monday night's game at Vancouver.

Analysis: Giguere has won his last four decisions and has not allowed more than three goals in his last seven outings. He had to battle off a groin injury recently, but Giguere seems a bit more focused as of now after a rough start to the season. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie and the Ducks TG is also a high-end option. Both should be fine to start in Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28), but keep tabs on any news about Giguere's status over the weekend.

Giguere likely to miss Fri. start

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere, whose father, Claude, died in Canada on Monday, was given the night off on Tuesday against the Rangers. Giguere, who recently visited his gravely ill father, remained on the bench as the backup. He is expected to leave the team later this week for the funeral and probably will miss Friday night's game at Edmonton before returning.

Analysis: Giguere has won his last four decisions and has not allowed more than three goals in his last seven outings. He had to battle off a groin injury recently, but Giguere seems a bit more focused as of now after a rough start to the season. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie and the Ducks TG is also a high-end option.

Giguere bests Wild in Sunday tilt

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere ended up with 26 saves during a 4-2 win Sunday against the Wild. He never trailed in the game and allowed just one power-play score. Last season, Giguere was 0-3 against Minnesota with a 4.40 goals-against average. But in his five postseason starts against the Wild, he is 5-0 -- including shutouts in the first three games of the 2003 Western Conference finals. In those five games, the Wild scored just two goals on 153 shots. "They're a team that works hard, so it's important to outwork them if you want to be successful," Giguere said. "Last year the three games I lost, there was a lack of effort and focus. So tonight everybody wanted to be focused. Even though they don't score many goals, they don't give up many goals, either."

Analysis: Giguere has won his last four decisions and has not allowed more than three goals in his last seven outings. He had to battle off a groin injury recently, but Giguere seems a bit more focused as of now after a rough start to the season. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie and the Ducks TG is also a high-end option.

Blues still can't solve Giguere

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves for Anaheim during a 4-2 win Wednesday against the Blues. A longtime St. Louis nemesis, Giguere ran his record to 9-1-2 against the Blues. He allowed just one power-play goal as he won a third straight decision.

Analysis: Giguere is finally starting to get back on track after having a rough November that amounted to just three wins. Giguere has been an effective goalie for Anaheim the last few seasons and still should be in 2008-09 as long as he can stay healthy. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie and the Ducks TG is also a high-end option.

Giguere holds off Jackets for win

Analysis: Giguere has now won two of his last three starts and is starting to play a little better lately. That's a good thing, as he'll have to be on his toes if he wants to stop Jonas Hiller from stealing more and more starts. Consider Giguere a safe start as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie heading into Week 10 (Dec. 8-14). The Ducks TG also has high-end Fantasy potential.

Giguere locks up win vs. Columbus

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was back in net Sunday against the Blue Jackets after missing one game with a groin injury. He made 29 saves as Anaheim beat Columbus 5-3. Giguere never trailed in the game and allowed just one power-play score.

Analysis: Giguere has won his last two decisions and hasn't allowed more than three goals in four straight outings. He was battling some injury and inconsistency as of late, but Giguere still remains the Ducks' top goalie when healthy. Consider him a safe start as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie heading into Week 10 (Dec. 8-14). The Ducks TG also has high-end Fantasy potential.

Giguere dresses as backup Wednesday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was in uniform Wednesday against the Blackhawks, but dressed as a backup to Jonas Hiller in a 4-2 loss. Giguere tweaked his groin in a game Monday against the Red Wings.

Analysis: Giguere has struggled in recent weeks and could use a few extra days off to get his mind and body right. We really never want to see a No. 1 Fantasy goalie injured, but it appears as though Giguere can play if called on.

Giguere removed Monday due to injury

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 37 shots before being removed after two periods Monday against the Red Wings. He has a history of groin injuries and was beginning to cramp up. Giguere was replaced in a 1-1 games by Jonas Hiller, who made eight saves and allowed Marian Hossa to score the game winning goal 1:48 into the third period. Anaheim lost 2-1.

Analysis: Giguere was making his first appearance Monday since missing the previous two games -- one because of a personal problem and he dressed as the backup Sunday against Carolina. He wasn't injured this season until Monday, but perhaps a few days off will do Giguere some good since he has struggled for the most part in 2008-09. Obviously, we really never want to see a No. 1 Fantasy goalie injured, so hopefully this injury doesn't turn out to be long term. The Ducks TG has high-end Fantasy potential most of the time since Hiller is a solid backup.

Giguere dresses as backup Sunday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere returned from his one-game personal leave Sunday against the Hurricanes, but dressed as the backup in favor of Jonas Hiller, who made 36 saves in the 4-1 win.

Analysis: Giguere has only won once in his last six contests and isn't exactly playing at his usual high level right now. But he is back for the Ducks and should resume his starting job heading into Week 9 (Dec. 1-7). Giguere and the Ducks TG remain must-start options.

Giguere out for personal reasons

News: The Orange County Register reports that Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere has left the Ducks to tend to a personal matter. He will not play Friday vs. Chicago, but should be back for Sunday's game at Carolina.

Analysis: Giguere has only won once in his last six contests and isn't exactly playing at his usual high level right now. This news hurts weekly Fantasy owners who went with him in Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 24-30), but hopefully he'll be back on Sunday. Giguere and the Ducks TG remain must-start options.

Giguere stops 29 shots in win

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed one goal and stopped 29 shots in Monday's 4-1 win over Colorado. It was his first win in five contests.

Analysis: Giguere had allowed at least three goals in his previous five games, so it was nice to see a long overdue strong effort out of him. Despite his recent funk, he remains a top-end Fantasy goalie and should be active in any league that requires starting two goalies.

Giguere defeated in OT Friday

News:Lee Stempniak scored an unassisted goal with 2:21 left in the extra period to give the Blues a 3-2 victory Friday. Goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere didn't have a good look at Stempniak's shot to the short side, not with 6-foot-6, 214-pound defenseman Chris Pronger in the way. "I think Pronger was coming off the bench and caught a little bit flat-footed," Stempniak said. "So I just tried to use him as a screen. It was a great win." Giguere complimented Stempniak for turning the Ducks' numbers against them. The winner, a shot from the left circle, deflected off the goalie's stick. "I think he used Prongs in a very effective way," Giguere said. "You know, I would still like to see that shot again. But you can't go back." Giguere made 25 saves in the loss and allowed two power-play scores.

Analysis: Giguere continues to struggle as of late having allowed three or more goals in five straight outings. He is winless (0-3-2) in that span. He is not in jeopardy of losing his starting gig to Jonas Hiller, but Giguere has been a bit erratic in 2008-09 and Fantasy owners aren't liking the new trend. Hopefully, Anaheim will right the ship since Giguere is usually a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG also has high-end Fantasy potential.

Giguere makes 24 saves in relief

News: Ducks backup goalie Jonas Hiller, who made 29 saves against the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday for his first NHL shutout, was rewarded by coach Randy Carlyle with another start Wednesday against the Capitals -- and promptly gave up three goals on six shots before he was pulled at 7:13 of the first period. Jean-Sebastien Giguere replaced Hiller and the Ducks narrowed the gap to 3-2 despite getting outshot 14-5 in the first period. Giguere then allowed Washington to score three unanswered goals and the Ducks lost 6-4. Giguere made 24 saves in relief.

Analysis: Giguere continues to struggle as of late having allowed three or more goals in four straight outings. He is not in jeopardy of losing his starting gig to Hiller, but Giguere has been a bit erratic in 2008-09 and Fantasy owners aren't liking the new trend. Hopefully, Anaheim will right the ship since Giguere is usually a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG also has high-end Fantasy potential.

Giguere winless in three starts

News:Dan Hamhuis scored at 2:17 into overtime past Jean-Sebastien Giguere in Nashville's 4-3 win over the Ducks on Friday night. Giguere finished with 31 saves and allowed two power-play scores. He is winless in his last three starts.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed three or more goals during his winless streak and looks as bad as he did earlier in the season when Anaheim came out of the gate ice cold. The Ducks have been a very shaky team in 2008-09 and this is not expected from a title contender. Hopefully, Anaheim will right the ship since Giguere is usually a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG also has high-end Fantasy potential.

Giguere plagued in loss by Booth

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 23 saves for the Ducks during a 3-1 loss to the Panthers Sunday. Giguere might have gotten the 1-0 shutout had it not been for David Booth, who had his first career hat trick. Anaheim took a 1-0 lead 1:41 into the game before Booth tied it 2:19 later, lofting a backhander by Giguere. Florida took a 2-1 lead in the second period when Booth beat Giguere with a one-timer from the slot off a pass from Stephen Weiss. The Detroit native completed his hat trick, circling from the corner to Giguere's left and snapping a wrist shot from the faceoff circle past the goalie, during a power play with 1:48 to play in the second.

Analysis: Giguere has lost his last two starts, but he was much better Sunday than in his previous outing against the Stars when he had to be pulled after allowing four goals on 13 shots. Had Booth not been around Sunday, Giguere might have had his eighth win. He should rebound and continue to post solid efforts for one of the best teams in the NHL. Giguere remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats, along with the Ducks TG.

Giguere allows hat trick, pulled

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made just nine saves before being pulled during Friday's loss to the Stars. Mark Parrish had his sixth career hat trick in his Dallas debut and the Stars beat the Anaheim Ducks 5-2 on Friday night. Parrish, who signed a one-year deal with Dallas on Wednesday, had two power-play goals and a breakaway score in the first 26 minutes of play. The 10-year veteran wasted little time making an impact with his new team. He beat Giguere for a power-play goal in the first, giving Dallas a 2-0 lead with a one-timer from the right side of the crease. Parrish added two more goals in the second. He beat Giguere from the slot during another power play and gave Dallas a 4-1 lead with a breakaway 5:52 into the period. Giguere was replaced by Jonas Hiller after the goal and threw his stick as he departed. It was that sort of night for the Ducks. Hiller finished with 12 saves on 13 shots.

Analysis: Giguere hadn't lost in seven appearances coming into Friday and was riding a six-game winning streak. It wasn't like he was on an awful run. He just got a little caught up Friday. He should rebound and continue to post solid efforts for one of the best teams in the NHL. Giguere remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats, along with the Ducks TG.

Giguere completes shutout Tuesday

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was perfect through regulation and into overtime on Tuesday night as the Ducks defeated the King 1-0 in extras. Giguere stopped all 35 shots he faced for his second shutout of the season.

Analysis: Giguere improved to 7-4-0 on the season and has now won six straight decisions after starting the year 0-3. The Ducks and Giguere are back to their old dominating selves. The Ducks are one of the better teams in the NHL and Giguere has proven he can be one of the league's best shot-stoppers too. He remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats, along with the Ducks TG.

Giguere gets back on track

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastian Giguere, who was pulled from his last start in the second period, got back to winning ways on Sunday night as he made 34 saves in a 3-2 win over the Flames. Giguere improved his mark against Calgary in Anaheim to 11-2-2

Analysis: After staring this season 0-3, Giggy has now won six of his last eight games and his owners should no longer worry about his status as a No. 1 Fantasy goaltender. The Ducks are one of the better teams in the NHL and Giguere has proven he can be one of the league's best shot-stoppers too. In Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 3-9), the Ducks play four times, and Giguere should get at least three of those starts. He remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats, along with the Ducks TG.

Giguere pulled early Friday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was pulled in the second period Friday against the Canucks after he lost a 2-0 lead and allowed Vancouver to score four times on 13 shots. He was replaced by Jonas Hiller, who stopped 14 of 16 shots and sent the game into a shootout. Mattias Ohlund then scored in the 13th round of the shootout, and the Canucks beat the Ducks 7-6.

Analysis: Giguere came into the game a winner in four straight and five of six. He has gotten back on track after a rough start and even the best goalies have an off night. The Ducks will be a contender in the Western Conference, so Giguere remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Make it four-in-a-row for Giggy

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 34 shots during a 5-4 overtime win Wednesday against the Red Wings. Giguere had a 4-3 lead late in the third period before Henrik Zetterberg tied the game with 1:23 remaining. Giguere allowed two power-play and two even-strength goals as he won his fourth straight start.

Analysis: Giguere is putting behind him an awful start to the season and once again looks like an All-Star caliber goalie. He has won five of six starts and has allowed more than two goals in just two of those outings. Continue to start Giguere in all Fantasy formats. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere turns aside 30 shots for W

News: Jean-Sebastian Giguere had 30 saves for Anaheim during a 3-2 win Monday against the Blue Jackets. Giguere and the Ducks trailed 2-1 heading into the third period before Corey Perry and Teemu Selanne scored to rally Anaheim. "We've got too much talent and character in this dressing room," Giguere said. "Guys fought hard to get their game back together."

Analysis: Giguere has won three straight starts and four of five. He is putting behind him an awful start to the season and once again looks like an All-Star caliber goalie. Continue to start Giguere in all Fantasy formats. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere stops 47 shots Sat.

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 47 shots Saturday to help the Ducks win their third in a row as they beat the Canadiens. Giguere allowed four goals in the 6-4 victory.

Analysis: Giguere looked very solid Saturday, although he did allow four goals and has just a 3-4 record on the year. The Ducks could be beginning to start their season rebound and Giguere remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is also a high-end option.

Giguere wins in shootout Tuesday

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped both shootout attempts he saw on Tuesday in a win over the Maple Leafs. Giguere stopped Nikolai Kulemin's attempt and then stopped Tomas Kaberle as the Ducks won the game. Giguere stopped 36 shots in regulation and allowed just two goals.

Analysis: Giguere looked very solid on Tuesday despite his record of 2-4 on the season. The Ducks could be beginning to start their season rebound and Giguere remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is also a high-end option.

Giguere drops game to Carolina

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 21 shots during a 3-1 loss Sunday against the Hurricanes. Carolina controlled early play, taking a 1-0 lead six minutes after the opening faceoff when Eric Staal sent a wraparound pass through the crease for Ryan Bayda to tap past Giguere. Francois Beauchemin tied it slap shot from the right point during a delayed penalty call at 14:27 of the second. Just 2:21 after the Ducks tied it, Rod Brind'Amour gathered a puck in the slot and calmly swiped around Giguere to score his thrid goal of the season, giving the Hurricanes a 2-1 advantage after two periods. Staal added an empty-net goal in the final minute.

Analysis: Giguere has won just one of five starts this season and is not exactly starting the season the way we had hoped. The good news is that he has allowed just two goals in his last two starts and is starting to play better after allowing 13 goals in the first three starts. The Ducks should rebound shortly and Giguere remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is also a high-end option.

Giguere ends slump, nets shutout

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 38 saves for his 30th career shutout and the Anaheim Ducks' first victory of the season, a 4-0 decision over the previously unbeaten San Jose Sharks on Friday night. The Sharks had six power-play chances in the first 29 minutes, but couldn't beat Giguere, who had given up 13 goals in his first three starts, including four in an opening night loss at San Jose on Oct. 9.

Analysis: It was only a matter of time before Giguere and the Ducks got on track, so hopefully you stuck with him and didn't make any rash moves in Fantasy. The Ducks will contend in the Western Conference and Giguere will see most starts in net. Continue to treat him and the Ducks TG as a high-end Fantasy options.

Giguere continues porous start

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere lost again on Tuesday to the Los Angeles Kings and could stop just 17 shots en route to allowing five goals against. "It's not rust. There's no viable excuses. We're just not working as a team," said Giguere. "We need to work together and rely on each other and be confident that the guy beside you is going to do his job. Right now we're just lacking that confidence."

Analysis: Giguere has allowed 13 goals on 87 shots in three starts so far this season. Giguere allowed more than three goals just six times in 2007-08. This is not the kind of start we expect from one of the best goalies in the Western Conference on one of the best teams. Despite the slow start, continue to treat Giguere as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere opens season 0-2

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped just 20 shots in a 4-2 loss to the Coyotes Sunday. Phoenix jumped out to as 3-0 lead before Anaheim got on the board in the second period. All four games he allowed were at even strength.

Analysis: Giguere lost both his starts over the weekend and allowed a total of eight goals. Giguere allowed more than three goals just six times in 2007-08. This is not the kind of start we expect from one of the best goalies in the Western Conference on one of the best teams. Despite the slow start, continue to treat Giguere as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere stops 37 shots in loss

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 37 saves during a 4-1 loss Thursday against the Sharks. Giguere stopped all eight shots he faced in the first period before San Jose scored twice on 21 shots in the second period. They added two more goals in the third on 12 shots.

Analysis: Giguere allowed more than three goals just six times in 2007-08 and is on top of his game more often than not. Anaheim is still a top contender in the Western Conference and Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere in outstanding shape

News:The Sports Xchange reports the Conn Smythe Trophy winner in 2003 and a Stanley Cup champion in 2007, Jean-Sebastien Giguere is among the top money goalies in the game, even if he didn't quite show it in last season's opening-round playoff loss to Dallas. Backup Jonas Hiller, a rookie last season, displayed his wealth of international seasoning and transitioned to the NHL without a hitch. The Giguere-Hiller tandem is the envy of many teams in the league.

Analysis: Giguere, who missed all of training camp and the opening six games of the regular-season last year after having undergone offseason sports-hernia surgery, reported to camp in outstanding shape, so strong that he made a surprise start in the exhibition opener. He has won both of his preseason starts and rolls into the season with high hopes. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie.

Giguere wins fourth in a row

Analysis: Giguere has now won 14 times in his last 18 appearances and is heating up just at the right time for the playoffs. Only Sharks G Evgeni Nabokov has been as impressive as of late. Giguere remains a must-start Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Back injury doesn't faze Giguere

News: Ducks defenseman Mathieu Schneider scored twice in regulation, goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere made a pair of stops in a shootout and Anaheim defeated the Dallas Stars 3-2 on Sunday. Giguere, back after missing three games with back spasms and being the backup to Jonas Hiller in the Ducks' last game, made 23 saves. He has now won his last three starts and hasn't allowed more than two goals in his last 11 outings.

Analysis: Back spasms were about the only thing that could slow down Giguere at this time, and even that didn't get him off track when he returned to the lineup Sunday. Giguere has now won 13 times in his last 17 appearances. Only Sharks G Evgeni Nabokov has been as impressive as of late. Giguere remains a must-start Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere back on bench as backup

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere was ready to go Friday, but he was only on the bench as a backup to Jonas Hiller as the Anaheim Ducks lost 3-1 to the red-hot San Jose Sharks. Giguere will likely het the next start on Sunday against the Dallas Stars.

Analysis: Giguere was killing many Fantasy owners in their playoffs with his absence after winning four of his last six starts. The Ducks will take things with their superstar goalie very carefully at this point in the season, but it appears safe to put him back in all lineups for the time being.

Giguere says he'll play Friday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere practiced fully on Thursday and said after the workout he will be ready to go Friday against the Sharks, according to the Orange County Register.

Analysis: Giguere was killing many Fantasy owners in their playoffs with his absence after winning four of his last six starts. The Ducks will take things with their superstar goalie very carefully at this point in the season, but it appears safe to put him back in all lineups for the time being.

Giguere won't return on Wednesday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere will miss a second straight game Wednesday with back spasms, reports the Orange County Register. "Ill try to practice tomorrow and see how that goes," Giguere said. "Those are the types of games you want to play to get ready for playoffs. I would love to play that game, but at the same time, I have to be smart and make sure this doesnt bother me for the rest of the season."

Analysis: Giguere is killing many Fantasy owners in their playoffs with this latest leave of absence after winning four of his last six starts. The Ducks will take things with their superstar goalie very carefully at this point in the season, so who knows exactly when he will be back. Keep an eye on his status the rest of this week before inserting him back into your lineup for Fantasy Week 27 (Mar. 31-Apr. 6).

Giguere sits out with back spasms

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere sat out Saturday night's game against the Phoenix Coyotes with back spasms. He is questionable for the next game against the Kings on Tuesday.

Analysis: Giguere has won four of six starts in March. This comes after winning eight of 10 games in February. His confidence is up these days and that is good news for the Ducks. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere wins for 33rd time

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 20 shots to send the Anaheim Ducks to a 2-1 victory over the Dallas Stars on Wednesday night and the defending Stanley Cup champion strengthened its grip on second place in the Pacific Division behind San Jose, moving three points ahead of third-place Dallas.

Analysis: Giguere has won four of six starts in March. This comes after winning eight of 10 games in February. His confidence is up these days and that is good news for the Ducks. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Teams struggle to score on Giguere

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 38 shots during a 5-2 win Saturday against the Blues. He has now won two of his last three games. He has allowed two or fewer goals in nine straight games and 14 of the last 15 contests.

Analysis: It's insane on how well Giguere has played since February. He has won 11 of his last 15 games. It's no wonder the Ducks just gave away Ilya Bryzgalov in November. They didn't need a goalie quandry on their hands. With Giguere firmly entrenched in net, his confidence is up and the Ducks are winning games. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere loses in shootout Tuesday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 37 saves in regulation during Tuesday's contest with the Coyotes, but allowed the game-winning shootout goal to Radim Vrbata in a crucial 3-2 loss. "We didn't match their desperation," Giguere said after the game. "They wanted it more than we did. This was about desperation, and we did not respond."

Analysis: Giguere had one 10 of his last 12 games before Tuesday's extra-session loss, so his Fantasy owners really don't have much to bitch about lately. Despite this minor set back, Giguere remains a must-start No. 1 Fantasy goalie as he shouldn't sit much down the stretch as the Ducks make a run for their division title.

Giguere a winner in six of seven

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 20 shots during a 3-1 win Sunday against the Canadiens. Giguere has now won six of his last seven starts. He has allowed two or fewer goals in each of those seven games.

Analysis: Giguere has actually won 10 of his last 12 games amd has allowed more than two goals just once in that span. There hasn't been a hotter goalie in the NHL as of late than Giguere. The Ducks are peaking at the right time and that's great news for Giguere owners. He remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere's five game run ended

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up two goals on 27 shots and the Chicago Blackhawks also scored an empty net goal to beat the Anaheim Ducks 3-0 on Wednesday night. This was Giguere only third loss since Feb. 1. He has won nine times since.

Analysis: There hasn't been a hotter goalie in the NHL as of late than Giguere. The Ducks are peaking at the right time and that's great news for Giguere owners. He remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere wins fifth straight start

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 24 saves and the Anaheim Ducks beat Ottawa 3-1 on Monday night in a rematch of last season's Stanley Cup Finals. Giguere has now won five straight starts and has allowed two or fewer goals in each of those outings. He has allowed just one goal in his last three starts.

Analysis: There hasn't been a hotter goalie in the NHL as of late than Giguere. He has lost just once since Feb. 1 and has won nine of his last 11 outings. The Ducks are peaking at the right time and that's great news for Giguere owners. He remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere wins four consecutive times

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 22 saves and the Anaheim Ducks beat the Calgary Flames 3-1 Friday night for their fifth straight victory and Giguere's fourth in a row. Giguere has now won eight of his last nine starts and has allowed two or fewer goals in all eight wins.

Analysis: Giguere has been nothing short of spectacular in February. He is 8-1-1 after this win and has been the hot hand for the Ducks and continues to start pretty much every game in net. Treat him as a must-start Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere solid for Ducks again

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 16 saves to improve to 7-0 with a tie in his last eight home games against the Blues when Samuel Pahlsson scored 32 seconds into overtime to lift the Anaheim Ducks to a 2-1 victory over St. Louis on Friday night. Giguere has now won seven of his last eight starts and has allowed two or fewer goals in all seven wins.

Analysis: Giguere has been nothing short of spectacular in February. He is 6-1-1 after this win and has been the hot hand for the Ducks and continues to start pretty much every game in net. Treat him as a must-start Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere wins sixth game in February

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 26 shots in a 3-2 shootout win over the Avalanche on Wednesday night. Giguere has now won six of his last seven starts and has allowed two or fewer goals in all six wins.

Analysis: Giguere has been nothing short of spectacular in February. He is 5-1-1 after this win and has been the hot hand for the Ducks and continues to start pretty much every game in net. Treat him as a must-start Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere has won five of six

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 23 saves during a 4-2 win Sunday against the Ducks. Giguere, who lost Friday against the Stars, has now won five of his last six starts. He has allowed two or fewer goals in all five wins.

Analysis: Giguere has been nothing short of spectacular in February. He came into Sunday's game with a 4-1-1 record and 1.16 GAA. Giguere had the hot hand and continues to start pretty much every game in net. Treat him as a must-start Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere's win streak snapped

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up three goals on 20 shots and had a four-game winning streak snapped when the Dallas Stars beat the Anaheim Ducks 4-2 on Friday. The Ducks also had a five-game winning streak come to an end.

Analysis: Giguere had won four straight after losing his previous five in a row. Giguere is playing good goaltending again and starts just about every game for the Ducks. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere notches 25th win of season

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere only allowed one goal on 18 shots in the first period and stopped nine and six shots in the next two periods to lead the Anaheim Ducks to a 2-1 win at the Colorado Avalanche. Anaheim won its fifth straight and broke a string of six straight regular-season losses at the Pepsi Center, spanning more than five years.

Analysis: Giguere has won four consecutive games after losing his previous five in a row. Giguere is playing good goaltending again and starts just about every game for the Ducks. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere looking for win in Denver

News: The Ducks play the Avalanche on Tuesday and Jean-Sebastien Giguere is expected to be in net. Giguere hasn't fared well in Denver, going 0-4-1 with a 2.55 goals-against average. However, he has been a big part of the Ducks' recent success with a 3-0-1 record, 0.74 GAA and .972 save percentage with two shutouts in his last four starts. He made 27 saves Sunday against Detroit and appeared to allow the tying goal with 40 seconds to go in the third period before the referee called it off due to incidental contact with the goaltender by the Red Wings' Tomas Holmstrom. "It was a tough call. A lot of times they don't call it," Giguere said. "It took a lot of guts to make that call."

Analysis: Giguere is back on track after losing four straight starts to close out January. He came into Sunday's game with a 0.32 GAA in three February starts. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere wins third straight start

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 27 saves during a 3-2 win Sunday against the Red Wings. He has now won his last three starts. He had allowed a total of one goal in his previous three outings coming into Sunday.

Analysis: Giguere is back on track after losing four straight starts to close out January. He came into Sunday's game with a 0.32 GAA in three February starts. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere sweeps New York teams

News: After winning against the Islanders on Tuesday, Jean-Sebastien Giguere handled the other team from New York on Thursday. Giguere stopped 32 shots in a 4-1 win over the Rangers, who are winless against Western Conference teams in nine games this season.

Analysis: Giguere won his last two games after losing the previous four starts. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and is to remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere shuts down Islanders

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 25 shots to win for the first time since a 33-save effort at Nashville on Jan. 17. He was never really tested by the Islanders, who mustered only 15 shots through two periods on Tuesday. It was Giguere's third shutout of the season and second straight as he earned one in Anaheim's 1-0 shootout loss at St. Louis on Friday. He held off the Islanders, who came in averaging only 2.38 goals and lost their fifth straight -- all in regulation -- and for the seventh time in eight games (1-6-1). DiPietro made 23 saves.

Analysis: Giguere has lost his previous four starts, which followed a streak of five wins. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and is to remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Analysis: Giguere has lost the last four starts, this coming after he won five previous games. He has not been getting offensive support as the Ducks have scored just one goal in each of the prior three games and two in the other game. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and is to remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere pulled second game in row

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere had another shaky performance for the Ducks, who lost four straight games after a six-game winning streak. Giguere, who dominated the Wild in playoff series in 2003 and 2007, had a rare Minnesota meltdown early in the second period while the Ducks defense collapsed. Giguere stopped eight of 11 shots after allowing three goals on 18 shots in 29 minutes last Thursday in a 3-1 loss in Los Angeles.

Analysis: Giguere is 0-4 with an .863 save percentage and 4.77 goals against average in his last four appearances. Giguere slammed his stick against the post and chucked his blocker into the bench as he angrily left the ice when Jonas Hiller replaced him. It was the second straight game the Ducks pulled Giguere before the midpoint. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and is to remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere lost three in row

News: After winning five games in a row, Ducks goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere goes into the All-Star break with three straight defeats following Thursday's 3-1 loss to Los Angeles when he was pulled in the second period for Jonas Hiller. Giguere gave up all three goals on 18 shots and played 29 minutes, 37 seconds.

Analysis: Giguere has been exceptional to start the new year, now with a record of 21-14-4 this season after this loss. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and is to remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere loses second game in row

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere has now lost two consecutive games after winning his previous five starts. The Ducks goalie faced 33 shots from the Red Wings in a 2-1 loss on Wednesday.

Analysis: Giguere has been exceptional to start the new year, now with a record of 21-13-4 this season after this loss. Giguere starts pretty much every game in net for the contending Ducks and is to remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere's win streak halted

News: The Stars stopped Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere's win streak at five games after Dallas handed Anaheim a 5-2 loss Sunday. Giguere allowed four goals on 26 shots. He hadn't allowed more than three goals in his last seven outings before Sunday. His previous loss came Dec. 29 against Calgary, when he also allowed four goals.

Analysis: Giguere has been exceptional to start the new year and hopefully Sunday's bump in the road won't hinder his progress. He has 21 wins on the season and pretty much starts every game in net for the contending Ducks. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere wins fifth straight game

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed one goal on 34 shots, including 15 he faced in the third period to gain another victory Thursday, 2-1, at Nashville. Giguere has conceded three goals or less in the last seven games -- five straight wins and six in all.

Analysis: Giguere continues to thrive in net after a slow start to the season because of a groin injury. He is an impressive 8-2 in the last 10 games. No question Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere claims fourth win in row

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 22 shots to beat the Dallas Stars 4-2 on Tuesday and pick up his fourth consecutive victory. Giguere has allowed three goals or less in the last six starts.

Analysis: Giguere continues to thrive in net after a slow start to the season because of a groin injury. He is now 19-8-0 in his last 26 appearances and an even more impressive 8-2 in the last 10 games. No question Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere wins third straight outing

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves during a 4-3 overtime win Sunday against the Sharks. He has now won his last three starts and has allowed five goals in that span. He has allowed three or fewer goals in six of his last seven appearances.

Analysis: Giguere continues to thrive in net after a slow start to the season because of a groin injury. He is now 18-8-0 in his last 26 appearances. Giguere remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere solid in shutout

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere earned his sixth win in the last eight games Wednesday when he stopped 24 shots in a 5-0 win over the struggling Toronto Maple Leafs. Giguere now has two shutouts and 18 wins on the season. He has 27 career shutouts with the Ducks.

Analysis: Giguere is playing some pretty good hockey right now and along with the Ducks TG remain solid No. 1 Fantasy options.

Giguere wins fifth in last seven

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere picked up his fifth win in his last seven games Monday when he made 20 saves in a 5-2 win over the Nashville Predators. Giguere now has 17 wins on the season.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed more than two goals only once in his last eight starts as the Ducks continue to contend for the second-best record in the Western Conference behind Detroit. Anaheim plays four times in Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 14-20), so Giguere and the Ducks TG remain solid No. 1 Fantasy options.

Giguere drops game in shootout

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere was back in net Saturday against the Coyotes after missing Friday's game against the Blackhawks with the flu. Giguere made 34 saves, including 14 in the opening frame, but allowed the decisive goal in the shootout for a 3-2 loss. He has now lost two of his last three games, but does have four wins in the other contests.

Analysis: Giguere watched Jonas Hiller win Friday against the Blackhawks, but is not in jeopardy of losing his job to the rookie. He has allowed two or fewer goals in six of his last seven appearances. He is playing some of his best hockey of the season and remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere misses game with flu

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere had a touch of the flu and didn't take part in the morning skate, so it was up to rookie Jonas Hiller to give the Anaheim Ducks a solid effort in net. He didn't disappoint. Hiller made 20 saves in his seventh NHL start and withstood a couple of shots off posts, making an early two-goal lead stand up and leading the defending Stanley Cup champions to a 2-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday.

Analysis: Despite the solid game by Hiller, Giguere is not in jeopardy of losing his starting gig. He has won four of his last five appearances and has allowed two or fewer goals in five of his last six appearances. He is playing some of his best hockey of the season and remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere triumphs against Columbus

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves during a 2-1 win Wednesday against the Blue Jackets. He has now won four of his last five starts and has allowed two or fewer goals in five of his last six outings.

Analysis: Giguere has been pretty solid in net since mid-December, and even when he isn't on top of his game, the Ducks are such a good offensive team that he always has a chance to win. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie and the Ducks TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.

Giguere sees win streak end

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere saw his three-game win streak end on Saturday night when Anaheim fell 5-3 to the Calgary Flames. Giguere made 30 saves, but allowed four goals in defeat.

Analysis: Giguere isn't a stat stud, but he's on a pretty good team that should just continue to get better. Keep him and the Ducks TG as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie option in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec 31-Jan. 6) as they have games against Columbus, Chicago and Phoenix.

Giguere wins third straight

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere picked up his third consecutive win Thursday night as Anaheim held off the Oilers 2-1. Giguere made only 15 saves, the fewest shots he's stopped in any full game this season.

Analysis: Giguere now has two three-game win streaks this month, with this most recent one coinciding with the return of stud defenseman Scott Niedermayer. Giguere isn't a stat stud, but he's on a pretty good team that should just continue to get better. Keep him and the Ducks TG as a No. 1 Fantasy goalie option in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec 31-Jan. 6) as they have three games against Columbus, Chicago and Phoenix.

Giguere denies Sharks victory

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 27 saves during a 5-2 win Saturday against the Sharks. He has now won his last two starts and has allowed a total of three goals in his last three appearances while making 83 saves.

Analysis: Giguere has looked exceptionally strong in three games since the return of Scott Niedermayer. Perhaps this is a sign of things to come. The Ducks are a good enough team to keep Giguere in games and he remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 Fantasy option.

Giguere records first shutout

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 20 saves in his first shutout of the season during Tuesday's 2-0 win against the Sharks. It was his first win since Dec. 10 ahaomst the Blue Jackets. Giguere has allowed just one goal in his last two outings.

Analysis: Giguere has looked exceptionally strong in two games since the return of Scott Niedermayer. Perhaps this is a sign of things to come. The Ducks are a good enough team to keep Giguere in games and he remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 Fantasy option.

Giguere loses in shootout Sunday

News:Joe Thornton beat Jean-Sebastien Giguere with a shot high to the stick side to lift the San Jose Sharks to a 2-1 shootout victory over Anaheim on Sunday night and spoil Scott Niedermayer's return to the Ducks. Thornton was the 12th shooter and just the fifth to score in the shootout. His goal gave the Sharks their first victory over Anaheim this season. Giguere had 36 saves for Anaheim and has now failed to record a win in his last three outings (0-2-1).

Analysis: Giguere had allowed three goals in each of his previous four outings, so despite the loss, he at least made an improvement Sunday. Despite some rocky performances, he is not in jeopardy of losing his starting gig to Jonas Hiller. The Ducks are a good enough team to keep Giguere in games and he remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 Fantasy option.

Giggy pulled for fifth time

News: Anaheim goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up three goals on nine shots before Jonas Hiller replaced him at 13:15 of the second period during Friday's 5-2 loss to the Wild. It was the fifth time this season that Giguere had been pulled from a game. The Wild didn't let up, with Brian Rolston scoring at 15:05, and Brent Burns adding another goal at 16:10 of the period. Hiller finished with eight saves.

Analysis: Giguere has dropped two straight starts and has allowed three goals in four straight outings. Despite some rocky performances, he is not in jeopardy of losing his starting gig to Hiller. The Ducks are a good enough team to keep Giguere in games and he remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Ducks TG is also a No. 1 Fantasy option.

Giguere has win streak snapped

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 17 shots during a 3-2 loss to the Canucks Wednesday. The loss snapped a three-game winning streak for Giguere. He has allowed three goals in each of his last three games.

Analysis: Giguere has had some ugly outings as of late, but the Ducks are such a high-powered offense, he is usually kept in games for possible wins. Giguere still sees the majority of starts in Anaheim and remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy option. The same goes for the Ducks TG.

J.S. Giguere picks up road win

Analysis: Giguere has had some rough outings since late November, so it's good to see him come away with his third-straight win. He has allowed seven goals in those games, while facing 93 shots. He still sees the majority of starts in Anaheim and remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy option. The same goes for the Ducks TG.

Giguere stops 39 shots in win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 39 saves in the Anaheim Ducks' 5-3 victory against the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday. He has now won his last two starts, but has allowed three or more goals in four of his last six appearances.

Analysis: Giguere has had some rough outings since late November, but the Ducks are still one of the most explosive offensive teams in the NHL and Giggy is sometimes bailed out of tight spots. He still sees the majority of starts in Anaheim and remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy option. The same goes for the Ducks TG.

J.S. Giguere allows four goals

Analysis: Giguere has now allowed four goals in three of his past four starts, all losses, but he's a solid veteran goalie that should shake this streak soon. Keep him active for now, as well as the Ducks TG.

Giguere can't repeat Thursday's magic

News: A night after beating the Flames, Ducks goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere was pulled after allowing Andrew Cogliano's goal at 1:33 of the third period during a 5-1 loss to the Oilers. Giguere allowed four goals on 23 shots. Jonas Hiller replaced Giguere and allowed one goal on 12 shots.

Analysis: Perhaps it was a bad idea by the Ducks to start Giguere less than 24 hours after his previous start. Despite the poor game, he is not in jeopardy of losing his job and remains a No. 1 Fantasy option. As is the Ducks TG.

J.S. Giguere makes 38 saves

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere put a disappointing game behind him in a hurry -- at the Calgary Flames' expense. Giguere made 38 saves to help the Anaheim Ducks beat Calgary 4-1 on Thursday. Benched in the third period Tuesday night in the Ducks' 4-0 loss in Vancouver, Giguere allowed only Alex Tanguay's power-play goal early in the first period.

Analysis: Giguere still had a stellar November, going 8-3-1 in 12 starts with a 2.41 GAA. Continue to treat Giguere and the Ducks TG as must-start Fantasy options.

J.S. Giguere pulled Tuesday

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 23 saves before being pulled in the third period at Vancouver Tuesday as Anaheim lost in regulation for the second time in nine games (5-2-2). Jonas Hiller took over late in the game.

Analysis: Giguere had been outstanding in November with seven wins. He had a poor October, mostly because he was coming off a hernia injury. Continue to treat Giguere and the Ducks TG as must-start Fantasy options.

Giguere posts win vs. Kings

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 23 shots during a 3-2 win Sunday against the Kings. It was his fifth win in six starts. He has allowed three or fewer goals in his last seven appearances.

Analysis: Giguere has been outstanding in November with seven wins. It's great to see Giguere streaking after such a poor October, mostly because he was coming off a hernia injury. Well, it seems he is finally at 100 percent and winning. Continue to treat Giguere and the Ducks TG as must-start Fantasy options.

Giguere nets fourth straight win

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 28 saves to lead Anaheim to its second straight shootout win over the Sharks, 2-1 on Saturday night. The Ducks blew a one-goal lead in the third period before winning their season-high fourth straight game, with Giguere in net for all of those wins.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed a total of nine goals during his winning streak, and he hasn't lost since Nov. 5 against Dallas. It's great to see Giguere off to a hot start in November after such a poor October, mostly because he was coming off a hernia injury. Well, it seems he is finally at 100 percent and winning. Continue to treat Giguere and the Ducks TG as must-start Fantasy options.

J.S. Giguere wins third straight

News:Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves for his third consecutive win Thursday against the Kings. He allowed three goals.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed less than four goals in each of his past four starts, and he hasn't lost since Nov. 5 against Dallas. Continue to treat Giguere and the Ducks TG as must-start Fantasy options.

Giggy picks up third November win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 22 saves during a 3-2 shootout win Friday against the Sharks. It was his third win in five November starts (3-1-1). He has allowed more than two goals just once in those five starts.

Analysis: It's great to see Giguere off to a hot start in November after such a poor October, mostly because he was coming off a hernia injury. Well, it seems he is finally at 100 percent and winning. Continue to treat Giguere and the Ducks TG as must-start Fantasy options.

J.S. Giguere's night off ends early

News: For the second consecutive game, Ducks coach Randy Carlyle pulled his starting goalie in an attempt to keep things from getting out of hand. Ilya Bryzgalov was yanked at 17:11 of the second period against Phoenix Wednesday after giving up four goals on 18 shots. In Sunday's 5-0 home loss to Dallas, Jean-Sebastien Giguere was benched after surrendering four goals on 19 shots.

Analysis: Giguere stopped nine shots, and allowed two goals. The Ducks offense has struggled at times, but he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as is the Ducks TG.

J.S. Giguere gives up four goals

News: Ilya Bryzgalov played the third period after Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 15 of 19 shots in a 5-0 loss to Dallas Monday. Bryzgalov gave up one goal on five shots in relief.

Analysis: Giguere had allowed only five goals on 74 shots over the previous four games. The Ducks offense has struggled at times, but Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as is the Ducks TG.

Giguere stops 30 shots in win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 30 shots and the Anaheim Ducks beat Phoenix 5-2 on Saturday, extending the Coyotes' home losing streak to six games. Giguere, bidding for this 26th career NHL shutout, lost the whitewash early in the final period. The 30-year-old netminder picked up his third win of the season to go with three losses and one tie. He has won his last two starts while allowing just three goals and making 49 saves.

Analysis: Giguere hasn't allowed more than three goals in any of his seven appearances to date. The Ducks offense has struggled at times, but Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as is the Ducks TG.

J.S. Giguere wins Thursday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped shots by Sergei Fedorov, Rick Nash and David Vyborny during Thursday's shootout against Columbus, clinching it with a glove save of Vyborny's shot. "I think we played well from the beginning to the end," said Giguere, who made 19 saves. "We didn't have any letdowns. We finished on a positive note, so we should be happy with that."

Analysis: Giguere has two wins in his past five starts, but he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues as Anaheim tries to recover from injuries.

Giguere has blues in St. Louis

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed three goals on 32 shots in Tuesday's start at St. Louis, taking the loss. "It was a hard-fought battle," Anaheim coach Randy Carlyle said. "This is the type of game we've been involved with for a while here."

Analysis: Giguere will look to bounce back and get on track on Thursday against Phoenix. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite the loss.

Giguere yanked from net Saturday

News: Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere struggled in net on Saturday against the Stars and was pulled in the second period after allowing his third goal of the game. He stopped just nine shots. He was replaced by Ilya Bryzgalov, who stopped all 11 shots he saw in two periods, but the damage was done and Giguere took his second loss.

Analysis: Giguere had very little struggles in his first two starts, but even the best goalies slip up from time to time. He still remains the top netminder in Anaheim, but don't be surprised if Bryzgalov earns a start next time out. It appears safe to get Giguere into the active lineup in all leagues heading into Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 22-28). He is a solid No. 1 Fantasy option, as if the Ducks TG.

J.S. Giguere picks up win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 28 saves on Wednesday against the Predators in his second start of an injury-delayed season. Giguere underwent surgery Aug. 6 to repair a sports hernia and didn't return to the lineup until last Sunday, losing 2-0 to Minnesota. "My timing is coming back a little bit," Giguere said. "The key thing is to keep pushing, keep practicing hard and not lose my focus."

Analysis: It appears safe to get Giguere into the active lineup in all leagues heading into Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 22-28) if you kept him reserved to this point. The Ducks will next be in action on Saturday at Dallas.

Giguere makes season debut

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who recorded a franchise-record 36 victories last season and 13 more in the playoffs, faced 25 shots in his regular season debut on Sunday against the Wild. He sat out the first six games after undergoing surgery on Aug. 6 for a sports hernia.

Analysis: Giguere took the loss, but allowed just two goals. Josh Harding posted a shutout for the Wild. It appears safe to get Giguere into the active lineup in all leagues heading into Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 15-21).

Giggy hopeful for Sunday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (hernia surgery) is hopeful of returning for Sunday's game against Minnesota. "I would have loved to play (Wednesday)," Giguere told the Los Angeles Times. "This is a great night for our organization. But you've got to think about yourself a little bit more and make sure that you're ready to go. Three extra days of really good practice aren't going to hurt me, you know. It's kind of my training camp this week. I think I'm going to get some really good work in on ice. Really get my game ready."

Analysis: If Giguere is able to get back into the lineup, it should be safe to get him back into the active lineup for Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 15-21). The Ducks have three games in the upcoming period, but they're against Detroit and Nashville at home and Dallas on the road. Those are tough matchups and he is likely to only play in one or two of those games as the Ducks ease him into the lineup. Even if he plays Sunday, start him at your own risk.

J.S. Giguere aims for Sunday

News: G Jean-Sebastien Giguere is nearly ready to play and has targeted Sunday's game against visiting Minnesota as his goal to return from Aug. 6 sports-hernia surgery.

Analysis: That means you'll get to see how Giguere plays on Sunday before having to set your lineups on Monday. If he falters, Ilya Bryzgalov will be there for the Ducks. When healthy, Giguere remains a solid starting option in Fantasy play.

Carlyle: Giguere is 'very close'

News: Coach Randy Carlyle told the Los Angeles Times that Jean-Sebastien Giguere (hernia surgery) is "very close" to making his regular season debut. He is bouncing back from offseason hernia surgery.

Analysis: Giguere might be so close that a start on Wednesday against the Bruins is possible if he reacts favorably during pregame warmups. "We won't make the decision until after the pre-game skate on Wednesday," Carlyle added. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.

Giguere unavailable for opener

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (hernia) was unable to play in Saturday's afternoon NHL regular season opener against the Ducks in London. Ilya Bryzgalov got the start and allowed three goals on 20 shots to take the loss. Jonas Hiller served as his backup.

Analysis: Giguere should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues which allow daily transactions until he can officially return and prove his health in at least one game. He made the trip to London and is nearing 100 percent health.

Giguere might be ready to play

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (hernia surgery) told the Los Angeles Times that he is nearly ready to play and he might be able to play in one of the team's two games in London, England against the Kings. Ilya Bryzgalov will play at least one, if not both, of the games.

Analysis: Anaheim has five games in Fantasy Week 1 (Sept. 29-Oct. 7), so it is awfully difficult to consider reserving him. He might at least be able to start one or two games, but Bryzgalov appears to be the more attractive play at this point.

Giguere might not play in London

News: The Orange County Register is reporting that Jean-Sebastien Giguere (hernia) might not be ready for the regular season opener in London, England on Sept. 29. It appears Ilya Bryzgalov will be backed up by Jonas Hiller for the two-game set against the Kings. "It (playing against the Kings) is a long shot, but I don't want to rule it out," Giguere said. "This time of the year, I'm going to need a few practices. I don't want to rush it, but it's going to be soon after that."

Analysis: Giguere is hopeful of practicing on Wednesday in England, so it is going to basically be a last-second call from the Ducks and Giguere. You might want to keep Giggy reserved for the first scoring period of the Fantasy season and consider Bryzgalov as a precaution.

G Giguere still not ready

News: Anaheim goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who had surgery on Aug. 6 to repair a sports hernia, will probably require another week or so before he is cleared to play. He did not play in either Thursday's or Saturday's preseason games against the Kings.

Analysis: Giggy should be ready to test his injury in an exhibition game soon and is not expected to miss time into the regular season. The only question is who will be his backup. He remains a bona fide No. 1 Fantasy goaltender heading into 2007-08.

Giguere sits in preseason opener

News: Ilya Bryzgalov gave up four goals on 18 shots in Thursday's preseason opener against the Kings. He was replaced midway through the second period by J.P. Levasseur, who allowed just one goal on 15 shots. Jean-Sebastien Giguere didn't play in the exhibition game, nor did offseason addition Jonas Hiller.

Analysis: Giguere is still recovering from offseason hernia surgery. He should be ready to test his injury in an exhibition game soon and is not expected to miss time into the regular season. The only question is who will be his backup. He remains a bona fide No. 1 Fantasy goaltender heading into 2007-08.

Giguere expected to be ready

News: The Anaheim Ducks are looking to trade backup goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, despite the fact Jean-Sebastien Giguere just had hernia surgery. The star goaltender is expected to be ready for the start of the season after the successful procedure. In addition, they added Swiss netminder Jonas Hiller to make Bryzgalov expendable. "Bryz has been a first-class stand-up guy about this whole thing," general manager Burke told the Los Angeles Times. "He has never asked for a trade."

Analysis: Burke is hopeful of trading the backup for some depth at other positions, perhaps defense with Scott Niedermayer still uncertain whether he is going to return or not. They also lost restricted free agent Dustin Penner to Edmonton. Perhaps a trade to cross-town rival Los Angeles would fill a need for that team, especially since they have a lot of young talent. However, Burke might be unwilling to trade within his division. Other teams with a goaltending need or looking for an upgrade would be Montreal, St. Louis or Washington.

G Giguere has hernia surgery

News: Anaheim Ducks goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere had surgery Monday morning to repair a sports hernia injury, and the Stanley Cup champions expect him to recover in time for training camp. Giguere had the operation in North Carolina and could rejoin the team for its first practice on Sept. 10.

Analysis: The Montreal native led the Ducks to their first Stanley Cup title last season. He played in 56 games, posting a record of 36-10-8 with four shutouts, a goals-against average of 2.26 and a .918 save percentage. In the Ducks' Stanley Cup run, Giguere went 13-4 with a 1.97 GAA and a .922 save percentage. This isn't something expected to affect him into the regular season, so he remains a No. 1 Fantasy goaltender heading into the new season.

J.S. Giguere gets an extension

News: The Anaheim Ducks re-signed Jean-Sebastien Giguere to a four-year contract, which means that the team will try and trade backup G Ilya Bryzgalov. "J.S. Giguere has been an instrumental part of this franchise for the last six years," said Ducks Executive Vice President/General Manager Brian Burke said in a statement. "We view him as one of the top goaltenders in the NHL today, one with tremendous character and competitive fire, traits we value greatly in this organization."

Analysis: Giguere will once again be a top-notch goaltender in all Fantasy leagues in 2007-08. The same might hold true for Bryzgalov if he lands with a team willing to give him a shot at the No. 1 job. He showed in Giguere's absence that he can definitely handle it, so we'll see how his Fantasy value shakes down. The team added 25-year-old Jonas Hiller from Switzerland, so it appears Bryzgalov is expendable. What more could the Ducks possibly need after winning it all in 2006-07, however?

Giguere paddled by the Kings

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed five goals on 29 shots in Sunday's disappointing loss against the Kings.

Analysis: Giguere will look to bounce back on Thursday at Phoenix. Since the Ducks face only two matchups in the upcoming scoring period, he is not the most attractive Fantasy play in cumulative leagues.

Giguere stops 24 shots Wednesday

News: Anaheim goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere, whose 24 saves Wednesday helped the Pacific Division-leading Ducks record their 20th one-goal victory and 13th in regulation in a 2-1 win over the Coyotes. Giguere has now won his last four starts.

Analysis: After winning just four times in February, Giguere has won all three games he started in March. He appears to be back on track and remains a must-start Fantasy option.

Giguere leads Ducks to win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 30 saves to help lead the Anaheim Ducks to a 3-1 victory Friday over the San Jose Sharks. Giguere has now won his last two starts after failing to get a win in his previous three games.

Analysis: Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He is 30-8-7 on the season with a 2.25 GAA. He also has four shutouts.

Giguere takes loss Friday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere had 17 saves for the Ducks in a 4-1 loss to the Stars on Friday. Giguere has now gone 0-1-2 in his last three starts. The last time he won a game came back on Feb. 17 against the Kings.

Analysis: Despite his recent little three game winless streak, Giguere remains a solid Fantasy option in all formats.

Giguere gets improbable win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who was nearly pulled after allowing his fourth goal of the game midway through the second period, stayed in and ended up picking up the win in overtime on Thursday at Phoenix. He made 22 saves.

Analysis: Giguere had a difficult game, but he picked up a much-needed victory. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite his recent rough patch.

Giguere takes care of Sharks

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere had 34 saves against the Sharks, allowing a pair of third-period goals to Jonathan Cheechoo that helped make the final margin respectable for San Jose. "We came out and we very excited about this game," Giguere said. "We have two big games against these guys. The key was every time we had a scoring chance we put it in. That's important."

Analysis: Giguere allowed a total of four goals, but he picked up the win and that is all that is important. He'll get another crack at the Sharks on home ice at Honda Center Wednesday night.

Giguere returns and earns win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) made 30 saves in Sunday's win against the Stars after missing 11 games with a strained groin. The 2003 playoff MVP, who was leading the NHL with 23 wins when he was injured Dec. 26 at San Jose, gave up his only goal on a penalty shot by Jere Lehtinen with 12:14 remaining. "It was frustrating being out, but you can't put your emotion on how the team is going because that's putting your energy in the wrong place," said Giguere, 12-2-0 in his past 14 starts. "There's nothing you can do at that point except come back healthy and strong for yourself."

Analysis: Giguere, Ducks fans and his patient Fantasy owners are extremely happy to see Giggy back and better than ever. He remains a must-start in all leagues for the upcoming scoring period.

G Giguere is nearing a return

News: The Orange County Register reports Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) might be back in the lineup after the All-Star break. The team has an open spot on their roster and Giguere might return to fill that spot on Sunday against the Stars.

Analysis: The Ducks have really struggled without their netminder. Wait until he can officially return before inserting him back into your active Fantasy lineup.

G Giguere skates on Tuesday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) participated in the full morning skate on Tuesday and might be ready to return following the All-Star break. The team is hopeful he might be ready for the Jan. 28 game against the Stars, although coach Randy Carlyle has not yet set a return date. "It was a big step," Giguere told the Orange County Register. "I didn't go all out. I kind of restrained myself in practice, but after practice, I did some nice goalie drills. I was almost there, almost letting it go."

Analysis: Giguere is slowly rounding back into playing shape, which is good news for the suddenly flailing Ducks. They could certainly use him to stem the recent tide of losing in Anaheim and Fantasy owners feel the same way after having to scramble to fill a huge hole in their roster.

Giguere likely out until after break

News: Anaheim G Jean-Sebastien Giguere's groin injury hasn't improved as fast as the team hoped, and Giguere probably will be out until after the All-Star break.

Analysis: Anaheim continues to be one of the best teams in the league, and as long as they are winning, there is no urgent need to bring back Giguere. It is unfortunate for Fantasy owners that they will have to wait a few more weeks, but with the way Giguere has been playing this season, it is definitely worth the wait. Continue to keep him out of active Fantasy lineups.

Giguere out again on Sunday

News: Ilya Bryzgalov, making his third consecutive start in net because of Jean-Sebastien Giguere's groin injury, stopped 33 shots to post his first victory since Nov. 3. He allowed only two goals in the win on Sunday against the Red Wings.

Analysis: Giguere might be able to return in the next couple of games, but he should be kept reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 8-14) until he can officially return and prove his health.

Giguere still unable to go

News: The Los Angeles Times reports Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) continues to receive treatment for his groin injury, but he has not yet resumed skating. He did not dress for Tuesday's game at Detroit, but Ilya Bryzgalov (groin) was finally back with Sebastien Caron as his backup.

Analysis: Keep Giguere reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. It appears he is likely a week away at the earliest since he has yet to start skating.

Giguere nursing groin injury

News: The Los Angeles Times reports Jean-Sebastien Giguere apparently suffered a strained groin late in Tuesday's game and he had an MRI on Wednesday. The results will be made available on Thursday some time.

Analysis: Ilya Bryzgalov (groin) is also battling an injury, but took part in a 15-minute session before Wednesday's practice. The Ducks are nicked up and might have to turn to Michael Wall to start against the Hurricanes on Friday in Raleigh. Giguere is considered day to day for now.

Giguere picks up win No. 23

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 26 shots in a 4-1 win over the Stars on Wednesday for his 23rd win of the season, also a league high. He's 11-1 in his last 12 starts.

Analysis: Giguere is only owned in 88 percent of Fantasy leagues at this time, but is about the best goalie on the market right now. If you are in a league he is available, think about adding him to your roster.

Giguere wins 9th straight start

Analysis: Giguere won his ninth straight start for the Ducks, who have won five in a row and have the league's best record (25-3-6). Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as does the Ducks TG in leagues which use goaltender units.

Giguere misses 2nd straight shutout

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves on Friday to help stop Washington's four-game winning streak. Giguere's bid for a second consecutive shutout ended with Alexander Semin's goal 5:06 into the third period, off a back-to-the-ice, through-the-legs assist from Alexander Ovechkin.

Analysis: Giguere has been one of the best Fantasy goalies this season with a 18-2-5 record. Needless to say, Giguere is a must-start Fantasy option. As is the Ducks TG.

Giguere could start Tuesday

News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Jean-Sebastien Giguere (lower body) might start Tuesday's game at Edmonton. "It's definitely not serious or an injury per se," said Giguere. "I guess you could call it wear and tear. Last week was a tough week. I haven't been through a week like that in a long time."

Analysis: "I would be very, very surprised if he's not available to us in the next game," head coach Randy Carlyle said. Giguere leads the NHL with 13 victories this season. If he can't go, then Bryzgalov, who is coming off his own groin injury, might get the start. The latter said he is feeling much better and he's expected to practice on Monday. The Ducks TG unit is stellar and both goalies should be worth starting in most leagues because they have four games on the schedule.

Giguere scratched on Sunday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere was scratched from Sunday's game against the Flames due to what is officially being called a 'lower body' injury. Michael Wall was recalled from Portland of the AHL to start in his absence. David McKee served as the backup, as Ilya Bryzgalov is also out with a lower body injury.

Analysis: According to published reports, Giguere might be out indefinitely due to a broken finger. When we get official word from the club, we will pass this along. However, be cautious for Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 27-Dec. 3) just to be on the safe side.

Giguere posts 24th shutout

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere recorded his 24th career shutout, and the Ducks routed San Jose 5-0 Tuesday night to take a five-point lead over their California rivals. Giguere made 23 saves for the Ducks, who have never finished higher than second in the division since joining the NHL in 1993-94.

Analysis: Giguere's backup was former Cornell University goalie David McKee, who was called up on an emergency basis from the Augusta Lynx -- Anaheim's developmental affiliate in the ECHL. Ilya Bryzgalov was unavailable because of what the club described as a lower body injury.

Giggy still unbeaten this year

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere has keyed Anaheim's hot start, going 10-0-4 with a 1.98 goals-against average. He hasn't lost in his last four appearances, stopping all but four of the 77 shots he's faced.

Analysis: Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as the Ducks have lost just one game in one game in regulation this season. He'll put that record on the line on Wednesday against the Flyers.

J.S. Giguere is now 10-0-4

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed two goals on 26 shots in Sunday's game against Minnesota, as he improved to 10-0-4.

Analysis: Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and that is not expected to change any time soon. Ilya Bryzgalov got a start last Friday and he was terrible, getting the hook midway through the game.

Bryzgalov yanked on Friday

News: After allowing two goals on three shots in the first period, Ilya Bryzgalov was pulled for Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who stopped all nine shots he faced in the middle frame and five more in the third on Friday. The Ducks lost 3-0 to the Flames.

Analysis: Giguere is still getting the majority of starts in net and Bryzgalov is merely a backup option when he needs a rest. Things can change quickly with Giguere, so Bryzgalov is still worth owning, but we think J.S. is the way to go at the moment while he's hot. The Ducks TG is a No. 1 Fantasy option, whoever is in net.

Giguere to face former team

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 20 saves to record his second shutout of the season Thursday, and improved to 9-0-4 with a 2.08 goals-against average this season. He faces the Flames on Friday.

Analysis: Giguere, who played for the Flames from 1998-2000, lost his only start in Calgary last season, but was 2-1-0 with a 2.36 GAA in three regular-season starts against his former team. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.

Giguere earns the shutout

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 20 saves as Anaheim beat the Vancouver Canucks 6-0 Thursday night and remained unbeaten in regulation for an NHL-record 16th game. "Nobody expected this kind of a start, this is pretty amazing, but we have bigger goals than this. Our goal is all the way at the end," Giguere said. "It's nice to have this, but it should just be a confidence builder more than anything."

Analysis: Giguere is 9-0-4 this season, as he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.

Giguere tested very little

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed two goals on just 17 shots in Monday's overtime win against the Penguins as he improved to 8-0-4 with a 2.26 GAA.

Analysis: Giguere has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and has been tremendous after it looked like Ilya Bryzgalov might be on his way to the No. 1 job after shining in the playoffs last season.

Giguere dominates the 'Yotes

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere, 7-0-4 with a 2.28 goals-against average this season, is 11-6-1 with one tie, a 2.18 GAA and two shutouts in 19 games against Phoenix.

Analysis: Giguere remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as does the Mighty Ducks TG. Anaheim has won nine in a row over the Coyotes and six straight at home. The Ducks' last loss to Phoenix at the Honda Center came Oct. 12, 2003.

Giguere loses to Rangers

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed four goals on 34 shots against the Rangers Wednesday.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed nine goals in his past two games after allowing just seven total in his previous four games. He's still a solid No. 1 goalie this season, despite his recent struggles. The Ducks TG are also a nice No. 1 unit.

Giguere gives up five vs. Blues

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere gave up five goals in a shootout win at St. Louis Monday. "It's just one of those games," he said. "I'm not going to beat myself up because I gave five goals. The key thing is we got the win."

Analysis: The five goals marks a season-high allowed by Giguere, who entered with a 1.81 goals against average. Feel free to play him, and the Ducks TG, as a No. 1 Fantasy option while Giguere has got the hot glove.

Wild beat Giguere, Ducks in SH

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere, entered Friday's game ranked fourth in GAA at 1.81, stopped 31 shots for Anaheim in a 3-2 shootout loss to the Wild.

Analysis: Giguere has yet to lose a game on the season and is 6-0-1. He seems to have recaptured the mojo that made him a great goaltender in the past. Feel free to play him, and the Ducks TG, as a No. 1 Fantasy option while Giguere has got the hot glove.

J.S. Giguere on a roll

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 27 saves as Anaheim ended Minnesota's season-opening winning streak at six games with a 2-1 victory Friday night.

Analysis: Giguere improved to 4-0-4 on the season and he's taken a firm grip over the Ducks' goaltending duties. He's now posting an impressive 1.76 GAA and .942 save percentage this season. Things can change quickly with Giguere, so Ilya Bryzgalov is still worth owning, but we think J.S. is the way to go at the moment while he's hot.

Giguere wins at home Wednesday

News: Anaheim's defense kept pressure off goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere most of the game, and he had a shutout going late until he allowed a goal with five minutes to play against Detroit Wednesday. Giguere finished with 21 saves.

Analysis: Giguere is still sharing time with Ilya Bryzgalov, so only consider him as a No. 2 or 3 goalie in most formats.

Giguere has 22nd career SO

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 34 shots for his 22nd career shutout in a 2-0 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Monday night. "I don't compete against Bryz. He's my teammate," Giguere said. "I hope when Bryz plays, he has success. I worry about my game and the effort that I bring into the rink every day. That's what my focus is on. That's the only thing I can control. I don't know what's going to happen this year with me, as far as my future. But right now it's here, and I want it to be here."

Analysis: Giguere won the Conn Smyth Trophy as MVP of the 2003 playoffs, recording three consecutive shutouts against Minnesota in the Western Conference finals and helping the Ducks come within one victory of a Stanley Cup title. But he faltered early last spring and Ilya Bryzgalov took over, recording three straight playoff shutouts and coming up with the second-longest scoreless streak in postseason history - 31 minutes and 21 seconds longer than Giguere's run.

Ducks have two good goalies

News: Despite having talked earlier in the week about a "win-and-you're-in" philosophy when it comes to netminders, Ducks coach Randy Carlyle acknowledged having thrown the media a curveball after Ilya Bryzgalov registered 34 saves in Saturday night's 2-1 victory at Phoenix. "I don't think about who's playing against us. I just do my best to stop the puck. Really, I'm not counting. I don't know my stats." said Bryzgalov, who improved his lifetime numbers against Phoenix to 6-0 with a 1.67 goals-against average in Saturday's 2-1 victory over the Coyotes. That performance came on the heels of Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopping 41 shots in a 4-3 triumph over visiting Los Angeles a night earlier.

Analysis: The leg cramp that temporarily felled Giguere in the third period against the Kings had nothing to do with the decision, Carlyle said. He just felt it would have been unfair not to give Giguere and Bryzgalov each a start with back-to-back games to open the season. Between them, Ducks goaltenders Jean-Sebastien Giguere and Ilya Bryzgalov have stopped 75 of 79 shots through the season's opening two games, a cumulative .949 save percentage that any NHL team would love to have. So, now what? The Ducks play host to St. Louis on Monday. Does Carlyle continue to alternate the two and wait and see whether one outperforms the other? For Fantasy purposes, both should be owned. Right now, Bryzgalov is owned in 10 percent more CBS SportsLine leagues than Giguere.

J.S. Giguere cramps up in win

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere slumped to the ice late in Friday's game vs. Los Angeles. He recovered in time to finish off a busy evening in goal for the Anaheim Ducks. "I was just cramping up," he explained after he stopped 41 shots, including 22 in the first period, in Anaheim's 4-3 victory over the Kings.

Analysis: Giguere got off on the right foot this season after a shaky campaign in 2005-06. Consider him an excellent option in leagues which require starting two goaltenders.

Giguere falls to the Avalanche

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed four goals on 35 shots in Tuesday's game at Colorado to take the loss.

Analysis: Giguere is 0-1 with a 6.18 GAA and .844 save percentage in two starts against the Avalanche this season. He was pulled in his last outing against Colorado and did not fare much better on Tuesday.

Giguere pulled on Wednesday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed three goals on just 10 shots in Wednesday's game against the Avalanche, as he was pulled in favor of Ilya Bryzgalov midway through the first period. He ended up stopping all but one of the rest of Colorado's 19 shots to pick up the win in overtime.

Analysis: Giguere will look to bounce back on Friday against Nashville, although it would not be a surprise to see coach Randy Carlyle reward Bryzgalov with the start after the stellar effort in the comeback win.

Giguere, Ducks roasted by Flames

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed three goals on 24 shots in Wednesday's game at Calgary.

Analysis: Giguere has allowed eight goals over his past two starts and he has posted just one win over the past five games. Despite the recent cold spell, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.

Giguere not slick vs. Oilers

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim almost solved the Oilers, but Rexall Center remains a house of horrors for the goaltender and his team. Giguere allowed five goals on 30 shots to lose in a shootout, as the Ducks have failed to win in Edmonton since 1999.

Analysis: Giguere also has just one win to show for his efforts in overtime and shootouts, going 1-8 during the extra session.

Giguere shuts out the Sharks

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere stopped 34 shots on Saturday night vs. the Mighty Ducks en route to a 2-0 shutout. Giguere had sat out the Ducks' previous four games while Ilya Bryzgalov enjoyed another strong stretch in his rookie season, including a 2-0 victory for his first NHL shutout at the Shark Tank on Jan. 26.

Analysis: Bryzgalov is officially stealing starts from Jean-Sebastien Giguere, although the latter is still the No. 1 goalie in Anaheim. Normally, the Ducks would likely rest Giguere for the upcoming playoffs, but they certainly don't have a spot nailed down, so his starts won't be too far apart.

J.S. Giguere sits Monday

Analysis: Bryzgalov is officially stealing starts from Jean-Sebastien Giguere, although the latter is still the No. 1 goalie in Anaheim. Normally, the Ducks would likely rest Giguere for the upcoming playoffs, but they certainly don't have a spot nailed down, so his starts won't be too far apart.

J.S. Giguere getting competition

News: The L.A. Times reports that Ilya Bryzgalov has been good enough in goal that the Ducks are beginning to consider starting him more than just the second game of back-to-back series. He might even start over Jean-Sebastien Giguere against the Kings Monday. "I think you can pretty much read in between the lines," said Carlyle, who normally does not announce his starting goalie for upcoming games. "We said we would try to put the competition up for all positions on our hockey club. Bryz now has [put] himself in position where he's won two games."

Analysis: Bryzgalov's 9-10-1 record is mostly poor because of poor offensive support early in the season. But he still ranks among the top 10 in GAA (2.45) and save percentage (.913) in his rookie season. Pick him up at least as a reserve at this point -- and certainly in all keeper leagues. Giguere has a year left on his hefty contract and he has also played relatively well, with a 14-7-9 record and 2.72 GAA. This could turn into more of a platoon situation rather than a swap on the depth chart.

Giggy gets wiggy vs. Oilers

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere was touched for five goals on just 25 shots on Wednesday against the Oilers, so it appears frustration set in. The netminder picked up 16 penalty minutes, including a double-minor for roughing, a tripping call and a game misconduct.

Analysis: It isn't often that goaltenders roll up such impressive totals for their owners. This is great news in leagues which reward the category, as it overshadows his awful performance. In leagues which discourage PIM, this might be one of the worst negative totals ever.

Giguere shuts down the Cats

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere was brilliant over the weekend, making 30 saves against the Panthers on Saturday to earn his 20th-career shutout.

Analysis: Giguere battled Florida's Roberto Luongo, who was beaten just once by Chris Kunitz in the first period. Giguere has re-emerged as a quality No. 1 Fantasy goaltender after being shaky in parts of the 2003-04 season.

Giguere activated from I-R

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) has been activated from injured reserve and he will suit up for Saturday's game against the Thrashers.

Analysis: It is unclear if he will be the starter for Saturday's game or if Ilya Bryzgalov will continue to get the nod. Monitor the situation before setting your lineup for the upcoming scoring period.

J.S. Giguere progressing nicely

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) is making progress from his groin injury. "I've been feeling really good the last three days," Giguere told the Los Angeles Times. "I'm real happy with the progress. Then again, patience is the key here. Being smart is also the key. Once I go back, I can't keep getting injured, especially not that injury."

Analysis: Giguere will likely be brought along slowly to avoid aggravating the injury. Ilya Bryzgalov has also been playing well in his absence, so there is no need to rush. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.

Giguere doubtful for Wednesday

News: The Los Angeles Times reports Jean-Sebastien Giguere (leg) now has a hamstring injury to go along with the muscle cramp he suffered in his leg on Sunday.

Analysis: There is no report as to whether this is related to the injury which sidelined him in October. Ilya Bryzgalov will likely start on Wednesday in his place. Reserve Giguere in all daily leagues if you have healthier alternatives.

Giguere might return Wednesday

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere said that dehydration caused the muscle cramp which forced him out of Sunday's game. "It was a pretty intense muscle cramp," he told the Los Angeles Times. "I've always been a heavy sweater. Every game I lose at least 10 pounds or more."

Analysis: Giguere is considered day to day. This is certainly great news that it was not related to a groin injury which forced him to miss time in the past.

Giguere to play on Sunday?

News: After missing Friday's game, it is possible Jean-Sebastien Giguere (groin) might be ready to play in Sunday's game against Phoenix. "A couple of movements on the ice that I normally do weren't so good," Giguere told the Orange County Register. "Hopefully, I'll feel better (Sunday)."

Analysis: Keep Giguere reserved for the upcoming scoring period unless he is able to return on Sunday and play the entire game without aggravating his injury.

Giguere sidelined

Giguere aggravates groin muscle

News: The Los Angeles Times reports Jean-Sebastien Giguere is questionable for Wednesday's game at Carolina due to a groin muscle strain.

Analysis: Giguere sustained the injury in Monday's win at Tampa Bay and he missed practice on Tuesday. Keep him reserved in daily leagues if he is unable to go. Martin Gerber will likely start in his absence.

Giguere returns in relief

News: After losing his starting job to Martin Gerber earlier this season, Jean-Sebastien Giguere replaced him in the second period Saturday. By that time, the Islanders had scored three times on eight shots.

Analysis: Giguere finished with 11 saves on 12 shots. His inconsistent play makes him a risky Fantasy starter. He will start Sunday against Chicago, which was planned before Saturday's game.

Giguere's return to action unclear

News: Mighty Ducks coach Mike Babcock is unsure when he will get struggling Jean-Sebastien Giguere back into the lineup, according to the Los Angeles Times. "I don't know," Babcock said. "I haven't thought about that. I just assume that when a guy plays and wins, you got to play him."

Analysis: Martin Gerber, Giguere's backup, has been one of the NHL's best goalies thus far, and is getting almost all the starts. Reserve Giguere until he reclaims his starting job and strings together a few quality outings.

Dallas finally solves Giguere

News: Jean-Sebastien Giguere allowed four goals and made only 18 saves in Wednesday's opener at Dallas. "They outworked us in the beginning and we can't be satisfied with that," said Giguere. "Personally, I'm unhappy with the way I showed up (Wednesday). I felt like I was slack out there. There's no excuses."

Analysis: Giguere will look to rebound in the team's second game on Thursday in Nashville.

Giguere to make preseason debut

News: The Orange County Register reports that Jean-Sebastien Giguere will make his preseason debut Friday against Florida after there was some confusion about his immigration paperwork. "I feel like I'm in good shape," he said. "A few games and I'll be ready to go."

Analysis: Giguere remains one of the best Fantasy goalies available in drafts this season, but he's somewhat overrated as an early first-round selection. Some people might place too much value on him after his incredible postseason performance.

News: Giguere was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy after Monday's game. Despite losing Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals at New Jersey, Giguere was given the award for the most outstanding performer in the postseason.

News: Giguere did it again in Wednesday's Game 3 against Minnesota. He blanked the Wild for the third consecutive game, joining Ottawa's Patrick Lalime and St. Louis' Brent Johnson in 2002, Toronto's Frank 'Ulcers' McCool and N.Y. Rangers' John Ross Roch in 1945, and Montreal's Clint Benedict in 1926, as the only goaltenders to record three consecutive shutouts in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Giguere has a 213:17 scoreless streak dating back to Game 6 against Dallas. The NHL playoff record is 248:32 by Detroit's Normie Smith in 1936.

News: Giguere made 24 saves to lead Anaheim to a 2-0 win Monday at Minnesota. He has two shutouts in the Western Conference Finals and has a 153:17 scoreless streak dating back to Game 6 of the Dallas series. He is certainly a favorite for the Conn Smythe trophy at this point.

News: Giguere made 165 saves on 171 shots in the series against Detroit. Giguere posted a brilliant 1.25 GAA and a 96.5 save pct. in the four-game sweep of the defending Stanley Cup champion Red Wings.

News: Martin Gerber will be the starting goaltender on Friday. Coach Mike Babcock told the Los Angeles Times that he wants to give Giguere some rest. Giguere is not injured. He should be reserved in daily leagues, but should remain active in all others.

News: Giguere (neck) has sufficiently recovered from his injury. However, the Los Angeles Times reports that Martin Gerber is still likely to start Wednesday's game against Edmonton, with Giguere serving as the backup. Keep Giguere active, as he shouldn't be out much longer.

News: Giguere (sore neck) missed Sunday's game against Dallas. He remains day to day. Only use Giguere this week if you don't have a reliable replacement on your bench. Martin Gerber will start any games in which Giguere can't play, but he's not a recommended Fantasy starter.

News: Giguere missed Friday's game against Philadelphia with a sore neck. According to the Los Angeles Times, he is confident he will return soon. Martin Gerber got the start Friday, and will start any game in which Giguere can't play. Keep Giguere active, as this injury does not appear serious.

News: Giguere was named the NHL's Player of the Week on Monday. He has recorded three straight shutouts. Giguere has erased memories of an early-season slump, and should now be kept active every week in all Fantasy leagues.

News: Giguere will make his sixth start in seven games Wednesday against Calgary, according to the Orange County Register. While he might be close to claiming the starting goaltending job in Anaheim, Head Coach Bryan Murray plans to continue dividing the duties between Giguere and Steve Shields unless one gets "blazing hot." Giguere could be worth having as a No. 3 Fantasy goaltender right now, but keep in mind that neither player is a reliable week-to-week starter as long as he isn't the clear-cut No. 1 goalie.

News: Giguere played his first game of the season Sunday against Tampa Bay, after opening the season on injured reserve with a groin injury. He made 27-of-30 saves and didn't look much better than Steve Shields. We wouldn't recommend you use either Shields or Giguere on a weekly basis in your Fantasy league, as they will likely split time for the next few weeks.

News: Giguere will be the backup goalie for Friday's game against Washington, according to the Los Angeles Times. He could start Sunday's game against Tampa Bay as well. Right now you shouldn't start either Giguere or Steve Shields, as they will likely split starts for the forseeable future.

News: According to the Los Angeles Times, there's a good chance Giguere will be able to return from a groin injury in time for Friday's game against Washington. Steve Shields hasn't been that impressive in Giguere's absence, but it's unclear how Anaheim will split time between its goalies over the upcoming weeks. We don't recommend either player in Fantasy leagues right now.

News: The Mighty Ducks will place Giguere on injured reserve to open the season due to a sore groin. He will be replaced by Ilya Brzgalov as the backup to Steve Shields. If Giguere misses much time and Shields gets off to a hot start, Giguere might not get a chance to be Anaheim's starting goalie this season. Monitor this situation and drop Giguere in favor of Shields if you can.

News: According to The Orange County Register, Giguere is "unlikely" to be able to dress as Steve Shields' backup in Thursday's season opener. Giguere has been battling a strained groin muscle for most of training camp, and practiced for about 30 minutes on Sunday. We recommend you keep him on your bench for the time being, and monitor the situation. Shields could nail down the starting job with a strong start.

News: Giguere has missed seven straight preseason games and hasn't skated in more than a week due to a groin injury he suffered during an offseason workout, according to the Los Angeles Times. If he's not ready to go by the start of the season, Anaheim might keep Ilya Bryzgalov as a backup to Steve Shields in net. This injury could be costly to Giguere, who needs to play well to win the starting goaltending job. You might want to bump him down a few spots on your draft list, and move up Shields a few.

News: With the injury to Steve Shields and the release of Guy Hebert, it looks as if Giguere will be the main goaltender for the rest of the season in Anaheim. While he might have been a good keeper league pick, remember that Shields will probably be the starter next season. Don't pick up Giguere just based on his late-season performance.

News: Giguere will assume the starting goaltending job in Anaheim for the rest of the season. Although this is a good sign that he'll be given a shot at starting next year, he's not quite good enough to help a Fantasy team right now.

News: The Mighty Ducks recalled Giguere from Cincinnati of the AHL on Sunday, after assigning goalie Dominic Roussel there. The 23-year-old Giguere is 0-2-0 with a 3.53 GAA in two games with Anaheim this season, and will serve merely as Guy Hebert's backup for now.

News: Giguere made 32 saves in his season debut Wednesday night as the Flames beat Anaheim, 3-1. Giguere was especially sharp in the third period as Anaheim outshot Calgary 15-5 but couldn't score the tying goal.